2009 Dodge Ram vs. 2008 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2009 Dodge Ram is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Saturn Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Saturn 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 205 more horse power than 2008 Saturn Astra. (140 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2008 Saturn Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Ram weights approximately 406 kg more than 2008 Saturn 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 2008 Saturn 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 339 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Saturn Astra. (171 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Saturn Astra. 2009 Dodge Ram has automatic transmission and 2008 Saturn Astra has manual transmission. 2008 Saturn 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 | 2008 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | Dodge | Saturn |
| Model | Ram | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5654 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 345 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6350 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2000 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 4080 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.8 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 46 L |
