2002 Dodge Dakota vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Dodge Dakota is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,458 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Dodge Dakota (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 351 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Dodge Dakota (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Dodge Dakota | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
Model | Dakota | Golf |
Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
Body Type | Pickup | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2458 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 196 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1536 kg | 1185 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 3820 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2480 mm |