2008 Dodge Dakota vs. 1981 Ford Fiesta
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 Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Dakota (211 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 891 kg more than 1981 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (126 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Dakota | 1981 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Dakota | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 34 L |
