1998 Dodge Ram vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Dodge Ram is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,906 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Ram (173 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 910 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Dodge Ram (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Dodge Ram | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ram | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3906 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2070 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2520 mm |
