1998 Dodge Durango vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Dodge Durango is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 5,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Durango is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Durango (223 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Durango should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Durango weights approximately 915 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Dodge Durango is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Durango 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, 1998 Dodge Durango (399 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 272 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (127 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Durango will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 1998 Dodge Durango has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Dodge Durango will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Dodge Durango | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Durango | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 399 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2005 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2470 mm |
