1997 Dodge Dakota vs. 2007 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Dodge Dakota. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Dodge Dakota would be higher. At 2,458 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 3 (156 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 150 kg more than 2007 Mazda 3.
Because 1997 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2007 Mazda 3. 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, 2007 Mazda 3 (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Dakota.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Dakota | 2007 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Dakota | 3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 55 L |
