1997 Dodge Dakota vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Dodge Dakota. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Dodge Dakota would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 392 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 515 kg more than 1997 Dodge Dakota. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Dakota 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 634 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Dakota. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1997 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 1997 Dodge Dakota will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Dakota | 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Dakota | SL |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 2045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 80 L |
