1981 Dodge Mirada vs. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Dodge Mirada. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Dodge Mirada would be higher. At 5,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Dodge Mirada is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1981 Dodge Mirada. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1981 Dodge Mirada. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 466 kg more than 1981 Dodge Mirada. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Dodge Mirada. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Dodge Mirada. (343 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Dodge Mirada.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Dodge Mirada | 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mirada | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 4171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 330 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 343 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 99.4 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 2166 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2890 mm |
