2008 Saturn Astra vs. 1998 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra 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 3,906 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Ram (173 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2008 Saturn Astra. (139 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2008 Saturn Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 785 kg more than 2008 Saturn Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Saturn Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Ram will offer significantly more control. 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 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Saturn Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Saturn Astra. 1998 Dodge Ram has automatic transmission and 2008 Saturn Astra has manual transmission. 2008 Saturn Astra 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 Saturn Astra | 1998 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Saturn | Dodge |
| Model | Astra | Ram |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 3906 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 2070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 2030 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2790 mm |
