2009 Chevrolet Avalanche vs. 2003 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Dodge Ram. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Dodge Ram would be higher. At 5,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche (311 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Ram. (173 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Ram. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche weights approximately 130 kg more than 2003 Dodge Ram. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear 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 Chevrolet Avalanche (454 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Ram. (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Ram. 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche has automatic transmission and 2003 Dodge Ram has manual transmission. 2003 Dodge Ram will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche | 2003 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Avalanche | Ram |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5300 cc | 3906 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 311 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 454 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2200 kg | 2070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5630 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1950 mm | 2030 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3310 mm | 2790 mm |
