2008 Dodge Dakota vs. 1997 Dodge Sidewinder
To start off, 2008 Dodge Dakota is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Dodge Sidewinder. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Dodge Sidewinder would be higher. At 8,000 cc (10 cylinders), 1997 Dodge Sidewinder is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Dodge Sidewinder (641 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 431 more horse power than 2008 Dodge Dakota. (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Sidewinder should accelerate faster than 2008 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 368 kg more than 1997 Dodge Sidewinder.
Because 1997 Dodge Sidewinder 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 1997 Dodge Sidewinder. 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, 1997 Dodge Sidewinder (719 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 400 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Dodge Dakota. (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Sidewinder will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Dodge Dakota. 1997 Dodge Sidewinder has automatic transmission and 2008 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 2008 Dodge Dakota will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Dodge Sidewinder will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Dakota | 1997 Dodge Sidewinder | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Dakota | Sidewinder |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 8000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 641 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 719 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1057 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2850 mm |
