2003 Dodge Ram vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Dodge Ram is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf 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 @ 5600 RPM) has 371 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Ram weights approximately 1048 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf, 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 417 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (315 Nm). This means 2003 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Dodge Ram | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
Model | Ram | Golf |
Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 8277 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 500 HP | 129 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 732 Nm | 315 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 102.4 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 100.6 mm | 95.5 mm |
Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 2274 kg | 1226 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2480 mm |