2012 Dodge Durango vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Dodge Durango is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Dodge Durango is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Dodge Durango (360 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 247 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Durango should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Dodge Durango weights approximately 1223 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Dodge Durango is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 Dodge Durango. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Dodge Durango (528 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 356 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Dodge Durango will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Dodge Durango | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Durango | Golf |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5700 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 360 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5150 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 528 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2328 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5075 mm | 4148 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1925 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1801 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3043 mm | 2512 mm |
