2002 Dodge Ram vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Dodge Ram is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,906 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Dodge Ram (174 HP) has 121 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Dodge Ram weights approximately 1240 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Dodge Ram (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 209 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2002 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Dodge Ram | 1988 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ram | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3906 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2070 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2340 mm |
