1998 Dodge Ram vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 7 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 3,905 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Ram (173 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 487 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Dodge Ram is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 Dodge Ram. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Dodge Ram. (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Dodge Ram. 2005 Volkswagen Passat 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. 2005 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Dodge Ram | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
Model | Ram | Passat |
Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
Body Type | Pickup | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3905 cc | 2495 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 173 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 2070 kg | 1583 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2690 mm |