2004 Dodge Dakota vs. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Dodge Dakota is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 95 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 463 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 2004 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Dakota | 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Dakota | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3687 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1794 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 55 L |
