2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1998 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Dodge Ram. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Dodge Ram would be higher. At 3,905 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Ram (173 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 830 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Dodge Ram. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3, 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, 1998 Dodge Ram (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 1998 Dodge Ram has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Dodge Ram will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1998 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Mazda | Dodge |
| Model | 3 | Ram |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 3905 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 2070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 2030 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2790 mm |
