2003 Dodge Stratus vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Dodge Stratus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Dodge Stratus would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Stratus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Dodge Stratus (146 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (120 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Stratus should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Stratus weights approximately 90 kg more than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Stratus (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2003 Dodge Stratus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. 2003 Dodge Stratus has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Dodge Stratus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Stratus | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Stratus | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
