2009 Dodge Ram vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Dodge Ram is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Ram (212 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (197 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2009 Dodge Ram is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Dodge Ram. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Ram. (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Ram.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Ram | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ram | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3700 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.1 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5320 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1870 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 98 L | 55 L |
