2003 Dodge Ram vs. 1998 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2003 Dodge Ram is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Dodge Ram. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Dodge Ram would be higher. At 5,208 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Ram (223 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Ram. (173 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Ram. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 30 kg more than 2003 Dodge Ram. 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, 1998 Dodge Ram (399 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Ram. (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Ram. 1998 Dodge Ram 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. 1998 Dodge Ram will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Ram | 1998 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Ram | Ram |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3906 cc | 5208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 223 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 399 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2070 kg | 2100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 2030 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2790 mm |
