2008 Dodge Dakota vs. 1981 Mercury Lynx
To start off, 2008 Dodge Dakota is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercury Lynx. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercury Lynx 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 (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1981 Mercury Lynx. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercury Lynx. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 795 kg more than 1981 Mercury Lynx. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Dodge Dakota 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 2008 Dodge Dakota. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Mercury Lynx, 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, 2008 Dodge Dakota (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercury Lynx. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercury Lynx.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Dakota | 1981 Mercury Lynx | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercury |
| Model | Dakota | Lynx |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 950 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 |
