2008 Dodge Ram vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Dodge Ram is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf 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 230 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Ram weights approximately 150 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than 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 364 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Ram | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ram | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5653 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 330 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 509 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6350 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2440 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 4080 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 55 L |
