2008 Dodge Ram vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Dodge Ram is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 4,699 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Ram (310 HP @ 5650 RPM) has 210 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Ram weights approximately 659 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram will offer significantly more control. 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 (447 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 307 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Ram | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ram | Polo |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4699 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 310 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 447 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5840 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1870 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3580 mm | 2410 mm |
