2008 Dodge Ram vs. 1982 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Dodge Ram is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 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) has 156 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Ram weights approximately 752 kg more than 1982 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, 1982 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 218 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Passat. (101 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Ram | 1982 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ram | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1692 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5280 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3070 mm | 2560 mm |
