1996 Dodge Intrepid vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 7 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 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (247 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Intrepid. (214 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Intrepid. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 305 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Intrepid. (339 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Intrepid.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Intrepid | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Intrepid | S |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3522 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 214 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5126 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 88 L |
