1998 Dodge Ram vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 10 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Ram. (173 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Ram. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 720 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Dodge Ram. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Dodge Ram | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ram | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3905 cc | 2771 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2070 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2710 mm |
