1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2011 Dodge Dakota is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Dodge Dakota (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2011 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Dodge Dakota (319 Nm) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 2011 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 2011 Dodge Dakota has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Dodge Dakota will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Golf | 2011 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Dodge |
| Model | Golf | Dakota |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 5560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 3340 mm |
