2004 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 1998 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta 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 3,906 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (180 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Ram. (173 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Ram. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 628 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 1998 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Ram will offer significantly more control. 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) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. (235 Nm). This means 1998 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volkswagen Jetta | 1998 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Dodge |
| Model | Jetta | Ram |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1786 cc | 3906 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 2070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 2030 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2790 mm |
