2004 Dodge Dakota vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Dodge Dakota is newer by 23 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 3,687 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Dodge Dakota (210 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 652 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 2004 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, 2004 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, 2004 Dodge Dakota (319 Nm) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm). This means 2004 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Dakota | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Dakota | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3687 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1837 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5470 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 55 L |
