2003 Dodge Ram vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Dodge Ram is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 8,277 cc (10 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Dodge Ram (500 HP) has 451 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Ram weights approximately 1329 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Dodge Ram. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2003 Dodge Ram (732 Nm) has 650 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm). This means 2003 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Ram | 1979 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ram | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 8277 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 500 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 732 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 102.4 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2274 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2480 mm |
