2008 Dodge Dakota vs. 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2008 Dodge Dakota is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 4,701 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Dakota (302 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 936 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Dodge Dakota (446 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 344 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2008 Dodge Dakota has automatic transmission and 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit has manual transmission. 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Dodge Dakota will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Dodge Dakota | 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
Model | Dakota | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4701 cc | 1455 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 302 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 446 Nm | 102 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1746 kg | 810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2410 mm |