1998 Dodge Durango vs. 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton 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, 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton (237 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Durango. (223 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Durango. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 228 kg more than 1998 Dodge Durango. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton (500 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Dodge Durango. (399 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Dodge Durango.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Dodge Durango | 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Durango | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 399 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2005 kg | 2233 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 5059 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1903 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1901 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2881 mm |
