2004 Dodge Dakota vs. 2013 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Dodge Dakota. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Dodge Dakota would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2004 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 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 154 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2004 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Dodge Dakota.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Dakota | 2013 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Dakota | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2457 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1376 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2578 mm |
