1998 Dodge Ram vs. 2012 Ford F-250
To start off, 2012 Ford F-250 is newer by 14 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 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Ford F-250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford F-250 (385 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Ram. (173 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford F-250 should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Ram.
Because 1998 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Ford F-250. 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, 2012 Ford F-250 (548 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 243 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Dodge Ram. (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Ford F-250 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Dodge Ram. 2012 Ford F-250 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. 2012 Ford F-250 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Dodge Ram | 2012 Ford F-250 | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Ram | F-250 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3906 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 385 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 548 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 6269 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 2029 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1966 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 3967 mm |
