1998 Dodge Ram vs. 2012 Mazda 6
To start off, 2012 Mazda 6 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 3,906 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 6 (272 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Ram. (173 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Ram. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 449 kg more than 2012 Mazda 6.
Because 1998 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mazda 6. 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 Mazda 6 (364 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Dodge Ram. (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Dodge Ram. 2012 Mazda 6 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 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Dodge Ram | 2012 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Ram | 6 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3906 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 272 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2070 kg | 1621 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4755 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1795 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2789 mm |
