1998 Dodge Ram vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 13 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 5,899 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Ram (242 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2011 Mazda RX-8. (212 HP @ 7500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 719 kg more than 2011 Mazda RX-8. 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 2011 Mazda RX-8. 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 (453 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 238 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda RX-8. 2011 Mazda RX-8 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. 2011 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Dodge Ram | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Ram | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5899 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 453 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2130 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2703 mm |
