2006 Dodge Ram vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Dodge Ram is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 8,276 cc (10 cylinders), 2006 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Dodge Ram (500 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 426 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Dodge Ram weights approximately 1113 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Dodge Ram. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra, 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, 2006 Dodge Ram (713 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 548 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2006 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Dodge Ram | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Dodge | Opel |
| Model | Ram | Astra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 8276 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 500 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 713 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2313 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3070 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 98 L | 60 L |
