2009 Dodge Dakota vs. 1997 Ford Aerostar
To start off, 2009 Dodge Dakota is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Aerostar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Aerostar would be higher. At 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Dakota (211 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1997 Ford Aerostar. (133 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Aerostar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 176 kg more than 1997 Ford Aerostar. 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 1997 Ford Aerostar. 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 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Aerostar. (217 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Aerostar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Dakota | 1997 Ford Aerostar | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Dakota | Aerostar |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 3030 mm |
