2004 Dodge Dakota vs. 1989 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Dodge Dakota is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Dodge Dakota (209 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 1116 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Dodge Dakota. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 2004 Dodge Dakota (319 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 243 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (76 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Dakota | 1989 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Dakota | Polo |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 209 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 76 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1956 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 55 L |
