2008 Dodge Dakota vs. 1982 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Dodge Dakota is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Dakota (210 HP) has 171 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 1030 kg more than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Dodge Dakota. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 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, 2008 Dodge Dakota (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. 2008 Dodge Dakota has automatic transmission and 1982 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1982 Volkswagen Polo 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 | 1982 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Dakota | Polo |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 39 HP |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2340 mm |
