1998 BMW 325 vs. 2012 Dodge Ram

To start off, 2012 Dodge Ram is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 325 would be higher. At 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Dodge Ram (391 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 221 more horse power than 1998 BMW 325. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Dodge Ram weights approximately 574 kg more than 1998 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2012 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 325. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Dodge Ram (552 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 307 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 325. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2012 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 325. 2012 Dodge Ram has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Dodge Ram will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 BMW 325 2012 Dodge Ram
Make BMW Dodge
Model 325 Ram
Year Released 1998 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 5654 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 170 HP 391 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 552 Nm
Torque RPM 3950 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 10.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 6 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1386 kg 1960 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 5820 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 2020 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1910 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 3560 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 52 L 98 L