1997 Dodge Dakota vs. 2012 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2012 Ford Fiesta is newer by 15 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, 2012 Ford Fiesta (120 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 379 kg more than 2012 Ford Fiesta.
Because 1997 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Ford Fiesta. 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 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Fiesta. (152 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Dakota | 2012 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Dakota | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1151 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 45 L |
