1997 Chevrolet Express vs. 2008 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2008 Dodge Ram is newer by 11 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 5,735 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Ram (310 HP @ 5650 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Express. (252 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 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 645 kg more than 2008 Dodge Ram.
Because 2008 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, 2008 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, 1997 Chevrolet Express (448 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Dodge Ram. (447 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Dodge Ram. 1997 Chevrolet Express has automatic transmission and 2008 Dodge Ram has manual transmission. 2008 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 | 2008 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Express | Ram |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Van | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5735 cc | 4701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 310 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5650 RPM |
| Torque | 448 Nm | 447 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2390 kg | 1745 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 5280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 3070 mm |
