1998 Dodge Durango vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta 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 5,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Durango is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Durango (223 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (120 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Durango should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Durango weights approximately 605 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. 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 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. 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 199 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Durango will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. 1998 Dodge Durango has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta 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 Jetta | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Durango | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 399 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2005 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2651 mm |
