2008 Dodge Dakota vs. 1979 Lincoln Continental
To start off, 2008 Dodge Dakota is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lincoln Continental. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lincoln Continental would be higher. At 5,766 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Lincoln Continental is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Dakota (211 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1979 Lincoln Continental. (138 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1979 Lincoln Continental. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Lincoln Continental weights approximately 209 kg more than 2008 Dodge Dakota.
Because 1979 Lincoln Continental is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1979 Lincoln Continental. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1979 Lincoln Continental (359 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Dodge Dakota. (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Lincoln Continental will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Dodge Dakota. 1979 Lincoln Continental has automatic transmission and 2008 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 2008 Dodge Dakota will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Lincoln Continental will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Dakota | 1979 Lincoln Continental | |
| Make | Dodge | Lincoln |
| Model | Dakota | Continental |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 5766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 5570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2990 mm |
