1997 Dodge Dakota vs. 1986 Ford Escort
To start off, 1997 Dodge Dakota is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,458 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Dodge Dakota (118 HP) has 40 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (78 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 605 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Ford Escort. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Dodge Dakota (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (127 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Dakota | 1986 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Dakota | Escort |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 78 HP |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 55 L |
