1995 Dodge Dakota vs. 2012 Ford Mustang

To start off, 2012 Ford Mustang is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Dodge Dakota. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Dodge Dakota would be higher. At 5,899 cc (8 cylinders), 1995 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Mustang (412 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1995 Dodge Dakota. (247 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1995 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Mustang weights approximately 15 kg more than 1995 Dodge Dakota. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1995 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Ford Mustang. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Dodge Dakota will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Ford Mustang (528 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Dodge Dakota. (467 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Dodge Dakota. 1995 Dodge Dakota has automatic transmission and 2012 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 2012 Ford Mustang will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1995 Dodge Dakota will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1995 Dodge Dakota 2012 Ford Mustang
Make Dodge Ford
Model Dakota Mustang
Year Released 1995 2012
Body Type Pickup Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5899 cc 5000 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 247 HP 412 HP
Engine RPM 4400 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 467 Nm 528 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 4250 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Automatic 6-speed manual
Number of Seats 3 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1620 kg 1635 kg