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 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Ram (345 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Express. (197 HP @ 4400 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 585 kg more than 2008 Dodge Ram.
Because 1997 Chevrolet Express 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 1997 Chevrolet Express. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram, 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, 2008 Dodge Ram (510 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Express. (339 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Express.
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 | 4293 cc | 5654 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 345 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 339 Nm | 510 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 2330 kg | 1745 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 6300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 2030 mm |
Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1900 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 4080 mm |