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 6,505 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Dodge Ram (310 HP @ 5650 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Express. (193 HP @ 3400 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 92 kg more than 2011 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 136 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 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 2011 Dodge Ram.
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 | 6505 cc | 4700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 310 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5650 RPM |
| Torque | 583 Nm | 447 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2400 kg | 2308 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 5817 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 2017 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1877 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 3569 mm |
