1998 Dodge Ram vs. 2002 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2002 Nissan Altima is newer by 4 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, 2002 Nissan Altima (247 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Ram. (173 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Ram. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 655 kg more than 2002 Nissan Altima.
Because 1998 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Nissan Altima. 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, 2002 Nissan Altima (338 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Dodge Ram. (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2002 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Dodge Ram. 2002 Nissan Altima has automatic transmission and 1998 Dodge Ram has manual transmission. 1998 Dodge Ram will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Nissan Altima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Dodge Ram | 2002 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Dodge | Nissan |
| Model | Ram | Altima |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3906 cc | 3505 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2070 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2810 mm |
