2004 Dodge Dakota vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Dodge Dakota is newer by 7 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 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2004 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2004 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 265 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2004 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (220 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Dodge Dakota. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2004 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 2004 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:
| 2004 Dodge Dakota | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Dakota | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2457 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2520 mm |
