2008 Dodge Dakota vs. 1986 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Dodge Dakota is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Golf 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 73 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. (137 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 838 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1986 Volkswagen Golf, 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 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. (169 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Dodge Dakota has automatic transmission and 1986 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1986 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 1986 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Dakota | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 137 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 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 | 907 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 55 L |
