2008 Dodge Durango vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Dodge Durango is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Durango is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Durango (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Durango should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Durango weights approximately 427 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Dodge Durango is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Dodge Durango (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (220 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Durango will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Durango | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Durango | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1692 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5110 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1890 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 102 L | 55 L |
