2008 Dodge Dakota vs. 1994 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Dodge Dakota is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Opel Astra 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) has 143 more horse power than 1994 Opel Astra. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1994 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 269 kg more than 1994 Opel Astra. 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, 1994 Opel Astra, 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 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Opel Astra. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Dakota | 1994 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Dodge | Opel |
| Model | Dakota | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1116 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2620 mm |
