2008 Dodge Dakota vs. 1999 Suzuki Baleno
To start off, 2008 Dodge Dakota is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Suzuki Baleno. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Suzuki Baleno 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 @ 5200 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1999 Suzuki Baleno. (70 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1999 Suzuki Baleno. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 735 kg more than 1999 Suzuki Baleno. 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, 1999 Suzuki Baleno, 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 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Suzuki Baleno. (106 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Suzuki Baleno. 2008 Dodge Dakota has automatic transmission and 1999 Suzuki Baleno has manual transmission. 1999 Suzuki Baleno 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 | 1999 Suzuki Baleno | |
| Make | Dodge | Suzuki |
| Model | Dakota | Baleno |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 106 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 51 L |
