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 3,906 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Ram (173 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 592 kg more than 2008 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 four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. 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 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. 2008 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. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Dodge Ram | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ram | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Station Wagon |
| 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 | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2070 kg | 1478 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2720 mm |
