2003 Dodge Dakota vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 9 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, 2012 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel 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 138 kg more than 2012 Opel Astra.
Because 2003 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Opel 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, 2012 Opel Astra (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Dakota. 2012 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 2003 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 2003 Dodge Dakota will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Dakota | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Dodge | Opel |
| Model | Dakota | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1536 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2620 mm |
