1996 Dodge Dakota vs. 1985 Mazda 323
To start off, 1996 Dodge Dakota is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,458 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Dodge Dakota (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (56 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 564 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Dodge Dakota (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (107 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Dakota | 1985 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Dakota | 323 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 1720 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2410 mm |
