1999 Dodge Dakota vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1999 Dodge Dakota is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 5,898 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 185 kg more than 1999 Dodge Dakota.
Because 1999 Dodge Dakota is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1999 Dodge Dakota. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1999 Dodge Dakota (468 Nm) has 248 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (220 Nm). This means 1999 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1999 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 1999 Dodge Dakota will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Dodge Dakota | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Dakota | Golf |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5898 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5460 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3330 mm | 2520 mm |
