2008 Dodge Dakota vs. 1983 Vauxhall Chevette
To start off, 2008 Dodge Dakota is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Vauxhall Chevette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Vauxhall Chevette 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 154 more horse power than 1983 Vauxhall Chevette. (57 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1983 Vauxhall Chevette. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 836 kg more than 1983 Vauxhall Chevette. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Vauxhall Chevette 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 1983 Vauxhall Chevette. 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, 2008 Dodge Dakota (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Vauxhall Chevette. (92 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Vauxhall Chevette.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Dakota | 1983 Vauxhall Chevette | |
| Make | Dodge | Vauxhall |
| Model | Dakota | Chevette |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1256 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 45 L |
