2003 Dodge Ram vs. 1981 GMC Jimmy
To start off, 2003 Dodge Ram is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 GMC Jimmy. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 GMC Jimmy would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 GMC Jimmy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Dodge Ram (173 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1981 GMC Jimmy. (130 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1981 GMC Jimmy. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Ram weights approximately 240 kg more than 1981 GMC Jimmy. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 GMC Jimmy. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 GMC Jimmy. 1981 GMC Jimmy has automatic transmission and 2003 Dodge Ram has manual transmission. 2003 Dodge Ram will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 GMC Jimmy will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Ram | 1981 GMC Jimmy | |
| Make | Dodge | GMC |
| Model | Ram | Jimmy |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3906 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2070 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2720 mm |
