2009 Dodge Dakota vs. 1979 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2009 Dodge Dakota is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 5,731 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Dakota (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 724 kg more than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1979 Ford Thunderbird (386 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Dakota. (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Dakota.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Dakota | 1979 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Dakota | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3700 cc | 5731 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 386 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2537 kg | 1813 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 5520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 80 L |
