2009 Dodge Ram vs. 1988 Chevrolet Astro
To start off, 2009 Dodge Ram is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Chevrolet Astro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Chevrolet Astro would be higher. At 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Ram (345 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1988 Chevrolet Astro. (183 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1988 Chevrolet Astro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 204 kg more than 2009 Dodge Ram.
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 Dodge Ram (510 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Chevrolet Astro. (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Chevrolet Astro. 2009 Dodge Ram has automatic transmission and 1988 Chevrolet Astro has manual transmission. 1988 Chevrolet Astro will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Dodge Ram will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Ram | 1988 Chevrolet Astro | |
| Make | Dodge | Chevrolet |
| Model | Ram | Astro |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5654 cc | 4293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 345 HP | 183 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 8 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6350 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2000 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 4080 mm | 2830 mm |
