1996 Dodge Dakota vs. 2002 Opel Astra
To start off, 2002 Opel Astra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Dodge Dakota. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Dodge Dakota would be higher. At 2,458 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 330 kg more than 2002 Opel Astra.
Because 1996 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Opel Astra. 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 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Opel Astra. (173 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Dakota | 2002 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Dodge | Opel |
| Model | Dakota | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2610 mm |
