2004 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1998 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 6 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 3,905 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Ram (173 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 879 kg more than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Dodge Ram. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1998 Dodge Ram (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1998 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Cavalier | Ram |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 3905 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1191 kg | 2070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 2030 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2790 mm |
