1997 Dodge Dakota vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1997 Dodge Dakota is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,458 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (125 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Dakota.
Because 1997 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Dodge Dakota (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (169 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Dodge Dakota | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
Model | Dakota | Passat |
Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2458 cc | 1779 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 196 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2710 mm |