2006 Dodge Ram vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Dodge Ram is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 5,621 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Dodge Ram (345 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 231 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Dodge Ram weights approximately 1268 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Dodge Ram (509 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 343 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (166 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Dodge Ram | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ram | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5621 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 345 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 509 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2343 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5840 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3580 mm | 2560 mm |
