1996 Dodge Dakota vs. 1983 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1996 Dodge Dakota is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,458 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Dodge Dakota (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 660 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Dodge Dakota (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Dakota | 1983 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Dakota | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 1593 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2480 mm |
