2003 Dodge Ram vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Dodge Ram. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Dodge Ram 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 399 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Ram weights approximately 801 kg more than 2008 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, 2008 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 584 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (148 Nm). This means 2003 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Ram | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ram | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 8277 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 500 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 732 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 182 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2274 kg | 1473 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2720 mm |
