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 6,505 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Ram (215 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Express. (193 HP @ 3400 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 708 kg more than 2008 Dodge Ram.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 (583 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 264 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Dodge Ram. (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Dodge Ram.
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 | 6505 cc | 3701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 583 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 2400 kg | 1692 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 |
