2008 Dodge Ram vs. 1973 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Dodge Ram is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Ram (215 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (108 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Ram weights approximately 782 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Dodge Ram. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2008 Dodge Ram (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Ram | 1973 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ram | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1692 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5280 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3070 mm | 2480 mm |
