1997 Dodge Dakota vs. 2012 Mazda 6
To start off, 2012 Mazda 6 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, both vehicles can yield 118 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 120 kg more than 2012 Mazda 6.
Because 1997 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mazda 6. 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 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 6. (165 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 6. 2012 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 1997 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 1997 Dodge Dakota will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Dakota | 2012 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Dakota | 6 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4755 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1795 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2789 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 70 L |
