2009 Dodge Dakota vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Dodge Dakota is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra 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 (207 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra.
Because 2009 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 2009 Dodge Dakota. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra, 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, 2009 Dodge Dakota (236 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Dakota | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Dodge | Opel |
| Model | Dakota | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 60 L |
