2005 Dodge Ram vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Dodge Ram is newer by 8 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 4,702 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Dodge Ram (235 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Dodge Ram weights approximately 1307 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 2005 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Dodge Ram (407 Nm) has 262 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm). This means 2005 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Dodge Ram | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ram | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4702 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 235 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2517 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6350 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1930 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 4080 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 55 L |
