1998 Dodge Ram vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 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 3,905 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Ram (173 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (156 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 520 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. 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, 2009 Mazda 3, 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, 1998 Dodge Ram (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Dodge Ram | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Ram | 3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3905 cc | 2259 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2070 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2650 mm |
