2008 Dodge Dakota vs. 1989 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2008 Dodge Dakota is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Suzuki Samurai 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 (302 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 234 more horse power than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 816 kg more than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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 (446 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 343 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. 2008 Dodge Dakota has automatic transmission and 1989 Suzuki Samurai has manual transmission. 1989 Suzuki Samurai will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Dodge Dakota will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Dakota | 1989 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Dodge | Suzuki |
| Model | Dakota | Samurai |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4701 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 446 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1746 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2490 mm |
