1998 Dodge Durango vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Dodge Durango. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Dodge Durango would be higher. At 5,899 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Durango is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (266 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Durango. (242 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Durango. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Durango weights approximately 514 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
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 (453 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Durango will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 1998 Dodge Durango has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Durango | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5899 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 266 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 453 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2035 kg | 1521 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2578 mm |
