1997 Chevrolet Express vs. 2011 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2011 Dodge Ram is newer by 14 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, 2011 Dodge Ram (345 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Express. (252 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 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 699 kg more than 2011 Dodge Ram.
Because 2011 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, 2011 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, 2011 Dodge Ram (510 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Express. (448 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Express | Ram |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Van | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5735 cc | 5654 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 345 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 448 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2390 kg | 1691 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 6350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 2000 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 4080 mm |
