2009 Dodge Dakota vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2009 Dodge Dakota is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Dakota (207 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Because 2009 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 2009 Dodge Dakota. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 2009 Dodge Dakota (236 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2009 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 2009 Dodge Dakota will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Dodge Dakota | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
Model | Dakota | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1455 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 207 HP | 62 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 236 Nm | 104 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2410 mm |