2009 Dodge Dakota vs. 1985 Ford Escort
To start off, 2009 Dodge Dakota is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Escort would be higher. At 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Dakota (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1985 Ford Escort. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Escort.
Because 2009 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Ford Escort. 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, 2009 Dodge Dakota (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Escort. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Escort. 2009 Dodge Dakota has automatic transmission and 1985 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1985 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Dodge Dakota will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Dakota | 1985 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Dakota | Escort |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3700 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2410 mm |
