2008 Dodge Dakota vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Dodge Dakota. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Dodge Dakota 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 91 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (120 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 401 kg more than 2012 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 119 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Dakota | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Dakota | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.8 L/100km | 5.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 55 L |
