2008 Dodge Dakota vs. 1981 Ford Escort
To start off, 2008 Dodge Dakota is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Escort would be higher. At 4,701 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Dakota (303 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 233 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 737 kg more than 1981 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Ford Escort. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Dodge Dakota (446 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 325 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Dakota | 1981 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Dakota | Escort |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4701 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 303 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 446 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 954 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2400 mm |
