2008 Dodge Dakota vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Dodge Dakota. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Dodge Dakota 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 62 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3.
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, 2011 Mazda 3, 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, 2011 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Dodge Dakota. (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Dodge Dakota. 2008 Dodge Dakota has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda 3 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 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Dodge | Mazda |
Model | Dakota | 3 |
Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3701 cc | 2184 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 210 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Torque | 319 Nm | 360 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 55 L |