2009 Dodge Ram vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Dodge Ram is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,701 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Ram (310 HP @ 5650 RPM) has 256 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (54 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Ram weights approximately 1677 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 Dodge Ram (448 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 356 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (92 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. 2009 Dodge Ram has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Passat 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 | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ram | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4701 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 310 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 448 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2537 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5820 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3560 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 98 L | 45 L |
