Dodge Durango

Although based on the Dakota truck chassis, the 1997 Durango didn't display truck-like handling. The frame was stiffened before being put into duty under the four-wheel drive, but kept the Dakota-style suspension with double wishbones acting on a torsion bar spring up front and a live axle rear hanging on leaf springs. The 4x4 intentions were obvious through the ride height, and while a driver had low or high ratio full-time 4WD available, they could select rear drive only to save fuel while on the highway. Three engine options were available, the 238ci (3.9-liter) V6, the better 318ci (5.2-liter) V8, or the top-of-the-range 360ci (5.9-liter) which gave exceptional performance for the big and heavy Sport Utility Vehicle. Vented 11-inch (279mm) discs could handle the pace, cruising high speed across Country, or descending a 3:1incline. Inside it could seat eight comfortably.

Dodge Durango Specifications