2009 Dodge Sprinter vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 2009 Dodge Sprinter is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Sprinter is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Sprinter (154 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (90 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Sprinter should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Sprinter weights approximately 901 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Dodge Sprinter 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 Sprinter. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Santana, 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 Sprinter (380 Nm @ 1200 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (145 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Sprinter will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Santana.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Sprinter | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sprinter | Santana |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Van | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1200 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6950 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2740 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 4330 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 60 L |
