1998 Dodge Dakota vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Dodge Dakota. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Dodge Dakota would be higher. At 2,458 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Dakota (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 425 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Dodge Dakota (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (126 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Dodge Dakota | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Dakota | Polo |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2470 mm |
