2009 Dodge Ram vs. 1998 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2009 Dodge Ram 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 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Ram (345 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Ram. (173 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Ram. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 379 kg more than 2009 Dodge Ram.
Because 2009 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Dodge Ram. 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 (510 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Dodge Ram. (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Dodge Ram.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Ram | 1998 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Ram | Ram |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5654 cc | 3905 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 345 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 2070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6350 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2000 mm | 2030 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 4080 mm | 2790 mm |
