1997 Chevrolet Express vs. 1998 Dodge Ram
To start off, 1998 Dodge Ram is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Express. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Express would be higher. At 5,899 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Ram (242 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Express. (197 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Express. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 200 kg more than 1998 Dodge Ram.
Because 1998 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Chevrolet Express. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Dodge Ram (453 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Express. (339 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Express. 1997 Chevrolet Express has automatic transmission and 1998 Dodge Ram has manual transmission. 1998 Dodge Ram will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Express will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Express | 1998 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Express | Ram |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Van | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 5899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 453 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2330 kg | 2130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 2030 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2790 mm |
