2003 Dodge Ram vs. 1980 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2003 Dodge Ram is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 3,906 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Dodge Ram (173 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Ram weights approximately 1250 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Dodge Ram (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Ram | 1980 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ram | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3906 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2070 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2410 mm |
