2009 BMW M3 vs. 1998 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 11 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 241 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Ram. (173 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Ram. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 260 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Dodge Ram. (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Dodge Ram. 1998 Dodge Ram has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW M3 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:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1998 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | BMW | Dodge |
| Model | M3 | Ram |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 3905 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 2070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 2030 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2790 mm |
