2009 Buick LaCrosse vs. 1998 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2009 Buick LaCrosse 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 5,325 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Buick LaCrosse (300 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Ram. (223 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Ram. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 242 kg more than 2009 Buick LaCrosse.
Because 1998 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Buick LaCrosse. 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, 2009 Buick LaCrosse (438 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Dodge Ram. (399 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Dodge Ram. 2009 Buick LaCrosse has automatic transmission and 1998 Dodge Ram has manual transmission. 1998 Dodge Ram will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Buick LaCrosse | 1998 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Buick | Dodge |
| Model | LaCrosse | Ram |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5325 cc | 5208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 223 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 438 Nm | 399 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1858 kg | 2100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 2030 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2790 mm |
