2008 Dodge Dakota vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Dodge Dakota is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 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 (211 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (66 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 415 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (133 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Dakota | 1999 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Dakota | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1276 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 55 L |
