2008 Dodge Ram vs. 2003 Dodge Neon
To start off, 2008 Dodge Ram is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Dodge Neon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Dodge Neon 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 140 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Neon. (205 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Neon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Ram weights approximately 344 kg more than 2003 Dodge Neon. 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, 2003 Dodge Neon, 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 211 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Neon. (298 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Neon. 2008 Dodge Ram has automatic transmission and 2003 Dodge Neon has manual transmission. 2003 Dodge Neon 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 | 2003 Dodge Neon | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Ram | Neon |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5654 cc | 2429 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 345 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 509 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1347 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6350 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 4080 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 47 L |
