1998 Dodge Ram vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Dodge Ram. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Dodge Ram would be higher. At 3,906 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Ram (173 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 864 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Dodge Ram (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Dodge Ram | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ram | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3906 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2070 kg | 1206 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2520 mm |
