2009 Volkswagen T5 vs. 1998 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen T5 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 3,905 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Ram (173 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen T5. (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 240 kg more than 1998 Dodge Ram.
Because 2009 Volkswagen T5 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 Volkswagen T5 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 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Dodge Ram. (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Dodge Ram. 1998 Dodge Ram has automatic transmission and 2009 Volkswagen T5 has manual transmission. 2009 Volkswagen T5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Dodge Ram will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volkswagen T5 | 1998 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Dodge |
| Model | T5 | Ram |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2459 cc | 3905 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2310 kg | 2070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 2030 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3010 mm | 2790 mm |
