2011 Kia Optima vs. 1995 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Dodge Dakota. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Dodge Dakota would be higher. At 3,906 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1995 Dodge Dakota. (174 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1995 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 106 kg more than 2011 Kia Optima.
Because 1995 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Kia Optima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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, 1995 Dodge Dakota (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Kia Optima. (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1995 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Kia Optima. 1995 Dodge Dakota has automatic transmission and 2011 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2011 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1995 Dodge Dakota will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Kia Optima | 1995 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Kia | Dodge |
| Model | Optima | Dakota |
| Year Released | 2011 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2400 cc | 3906 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1454 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4844 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1831 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1455 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2797 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 132 L |
