2008 Dodge Dakota vs. 1989 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Dodge Dakota is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Polo 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 258 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 906 kg more than 1989 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 four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. 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 370 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (76 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. 2008 Dodge Dakota has automatic transmission and 1989 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1989 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 | 1989 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Dakota | Polo |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4701 cc | 1270 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 446 Nm | 76 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1746 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 42 L |
