1998 Opel Astra vs. 2012 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2012 Dodge Ram is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Dodge Ram (212 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra.
Because 2012 Dodge Ram is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 Dodge Ram. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Dodge Ram (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 2012 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Opel | Dodge |
| Model | Astra | Ram |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 88.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 100 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 5320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1870 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2900 mm |
