1996 Dodge Intrepid vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Dodge Intrepid. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Dodge Intrepid would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Intrepid. (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Intrepid. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 264 kg more than 1996 Dodge Intrepid. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Intrepid, 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Intrepid. (305 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Intrepid. 1996 Dodge Intrepid has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Dodge Intrepid will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Dodge Intrepid | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Intrepid | SL |
Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3228 cc | 4971 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 315 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 468 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1769 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5126 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 80 L |