2008 Dodge Ram vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Dodge Ram is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Ram (345 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (157 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Ram weights approximately 496 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (509 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 284 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Dodge Ram has automatic transmission and 1988 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1988 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Dodge Ram will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Ram | 1988 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ram | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5654 cc | 1763 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 345 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 509 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5790 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1890 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3580 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 98 L | 55 L |
