1998 Dodge Ram vs. 2012 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Maxima 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 5,208 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Maxima (290 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Ram. (223 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Ram. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 483 kg more than 2012 Nissan Maxima.
Because 1998 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Nissan Maxima. 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 (399 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Nissan Maxima. (353 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Dodge Ram | 2012 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Dodge | Nissan |
| Model | Ram | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5208 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 399 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2100 kg | 1617 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4841 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2776 mm |
