2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1998 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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 5,899 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Ram (242 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 840 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. 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 Volkswagen Golf. 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 (453 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 326 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (127 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. 1998 Dodge Ram has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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 Volkswagen Golf | 1998 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Dodge |
| Model | Golf | Ram |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1390 cc | 5899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 453 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 2130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 2030 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2790 mm |
