2009 Dodge Dakota vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Dodge Dakota is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volkswagen Golf 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 93 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf, 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 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Dakota | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Dakota | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 55 L |
