2003 Dodge Durango vs. 2002 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2003 Dodge Durango is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 4,702 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Durango is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Dodge Durango (232 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Durango should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Durango weights approximately 870 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 Dodge Durango is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Dodge Durango (399 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Dodge Durango will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. 2003 Dodge Durango has automatic transmission and 2002 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2002 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Dodge Durango will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Dodge Durango 2002 Volkswagen Golf
Make Dodge Volkswagen
Model Durango Golf
Year Released 2003 2002
Body Type SUV Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4702 cc 1984 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 232 HP 113 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 399 Nm 172 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 3200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 8 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1975 kg 1105 kg
Vehicle Length 4920 mm 4148 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1735 mm
Vehicle Height 1810 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2950 mm 2512 mm