2002 Dodge Dakota vs. 1972 Ford Gran Torino
To start off, 2002 Dodge Dakota is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Gran Torino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Gran Torino would be higher. At 4,097 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Ford Gran Torino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Dodge Dakota (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. (95 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Gran Torino weights approximately 322 kg more than 2002 Dodge Dakota.
Because 2002 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1972 Ford Gran Torino (245 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1972 Ford Gran Torino will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Dodge Dakota.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Dodge Dakota | 1972 Ford Gran Torino | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Dakota | Gran Torino |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 4097 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1536 kg | 1858 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 5470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 3000 mm |
