2008 Dodge Dakota vs. 1987 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Dodge Dakota is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 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 @ 5200 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 615 kg more than 1987 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, 1987 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 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. (95 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Dakota | 1987 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Dakota | Polo |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1987 |
| 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 | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2340 mm |
