1998 Dodge Ram vs. 2009 Ford Taurus

To start off, 2009 Ford Taurus 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 3,906 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Taurus (264 HP @ 6251 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Ram. (173 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus 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 Taurus.

Because 1998 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Ford Taurus. 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, 2009 Ford Taurus (338 Nm @ 4501 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Dodge Ram. (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Dodge Ram. 2009 Ford Taurus 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 Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Dodge Ram 2009 Ford Taurus
Make Dodge Ford
Model Ram Taurus
Year Released 1998 2009
Body Type Pickup Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3906 cc 3496 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 173 HP 264 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 6251 RPM
Torque 305 Nm 338 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 4501 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 2070 kg 966 kg
Vehicle Length 4760 mm 5130 mm
Vehicle Width 2030 mm 1900 mm
Vehicle Height 2030 mm 1570 mm
Wheelbase Size 2790 mm 2870 mm