1997 Dodge Dakota vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 11 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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 108 kg more than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Because 1997 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Dakota.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Dakota | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Dakota | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 61 L |
