2008 Dodge Ram vs. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2008 Dodge Ram is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Beetle 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 254 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. (91 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Ram weights approximately 461 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Dodge Ram 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 2008 Dodge Ram. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle, 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 307 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. (202 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. 2008 Dodge Ram has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle 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 | 1998 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ram | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5654 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 345 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 509 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6350 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 4080 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 55 L |
