1988 Dodge Spirit vs. 2012 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2012 Dodge Ram is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Dodge Spirit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Dodge Spirit would be higher. At 4,701 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Dodge Ram (310 HP @ 5650 RPM) has 169 more horse power than 1988 Dodge Spirit. (141 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1988 Dodge Spirit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Dodge Ram weights approximately 1183 kg more than 1988 Dodge Spirit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Dodge Spirit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Ram 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, 2012 Dodge Ram (448 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Dodge Spirit. (232 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Dodge Spirit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Dodge Spirit | 2012 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Spirit | Ram |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2972 cc | 4701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 310 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5650 RPM |
| Torque | 232 Nm | 448 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1354 kg | 2537 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 5820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 3560 mm |
