2008 Dodge Ram vs. 1997 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2008 Dodge Ram is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Suzuki Samurai 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 262 more horse power than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Ram weights approximately 430 kg more than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Dodge Ram. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Suzuki Samurai 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 (509 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 405 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Ram | 1997 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Dodge | Suzuki |
| Model | Ram | Samurai |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5653 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 330 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 509 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6350 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2440 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 4080 mm | 2490 mm |
