2008 Dodge Ram vs. 1996 Ford Ranger
To start off, 2008 Dodge Ram is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Ranger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Ranger would be higher. At 5,653 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Ram (330 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ranger. (118 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Ranger weights approximately 35 kg more than 2008 Dodge Ram.
Because 1996 Ford Ranger 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 1996 Ford Ranger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram, 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 (509 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 311 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ranger. (198 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ranger.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Ram | 1996 Ford Ranger | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Ram | Ranger |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5653 cc | 2507 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 330 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 509 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6350 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2440 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 4080 mm | 2840 mm |
