2008 Dodge Dakota vs. 1997 Ford Escort
To start off, 2008 Dodge Dakota is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Escort 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 (303 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 229 more horse power than 1997 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 561 kg more than 1997 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Ford Escort. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota will offer significantly more control. 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 332 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Escort. 2008 Dodge Dakota has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1997 Ford Escort 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 | 1997 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Dakota | Escort |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4701 cc | 1391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 303 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 446 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1450 mm |
