2008 Dodge Ram vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Dodge Ram. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Dodge Ram would be higher. At 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Ram (215 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Ram weights approximately 187 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat, 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 (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Ram | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ram | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1692 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5280 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3070 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 98 L | 70 L |
