2009 Dodge Ram vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Dodge Ram is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra 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 271 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Ram weights approximately 491 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. 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 1998 Opel Astra. 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 345 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra. 2009 Dodge Ram has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Astra 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 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Dodge | Opel |
| Model | Ram | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5654 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 345 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6350 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2000 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 4080 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 60 L |
