1997 Ford Ranger vs. 2008 Pontiac G8
To start off, 2008 Pontiac G8 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Ranger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Ranger would be higher. At 5,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Pontiac G8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Pontiac G8 (361 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 243 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ranger. (118 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac G8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Ranger weights approximately 43 kg more than 2008 Pontiac G8.
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, 2008 Pontiac G8 (522 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 324 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ranger. (198 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Pontiac G8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ranger.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Ranger | 2008 Pontiac G8 | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Ranger | G8 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2507 cc | 5999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 361 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 522 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1352 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2920 mm |
