1998 Dodge Ram vs. 2009 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 11 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 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (211 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Ram. (173 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Ram. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 1104 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Dodge Ram. (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Dodge Ram. 2009 Ford Explorer 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. 2009 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Dodge Ram | 2009 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Ram | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3906 cc | 4009 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 344 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2070 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2890 mm |
