2008 Dodge Dakota vs. 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2008 Dodge Dakota is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit 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 @ 5200 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 900 kg more than 1983 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 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, 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2008 Dodge Dakota has automatic transmission and 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit has manual transmission. 1983 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 | 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Dakota | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1713 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 845 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 |
