2003 Dodge Dakota vs. 2008 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Dodge Dakota. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Dodge Dakota would be higher. At 2,458 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saturn Astra (139 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 251 kg more than 2008 Saturn Astra.
Because 2003 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Saturn Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Dodge Dakota (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Saturn Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Saturn Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Dakota | 2008 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | Dodge | Saturn |
| Model | Dakota | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1536 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2620 mm |
