1998 Dodge Ram vs. 2012 Ford S-Max
To start off, 2012 Ford S-Max 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 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 114 more horse power than 2012 Ford S-Max. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2012 Ford S-Max. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 387 kg more than 2012 Ford S-Max. 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 2012 Ford S-Max. 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 133 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford S-Max. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford S-Max.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Dodge Ram | 2012 Ford S-Max | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Ram | S-Max |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5899 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 453 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2130 kg | 1743 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2860 mm |
