1997 Dodge Dakota vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Dodge Dakota. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Dodge Dakota would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 18 kg more than 1997 Dodge Dakota. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Dakota.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Dodge Dakota | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
Model | Dakota | Golf |
Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2458 cc | 3196 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 238 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 196 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1548 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4180 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2470 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 62 L |