1998 Dodge Durango vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1998 Dodge Durango is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (317 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Durango. (232 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Durango. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Durango weights approximately 135 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1998 Dodge Durango is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Durango 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (471 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Dodge Durango. (399 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Dodge Durango.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Dodge Durango | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Durango | SL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4702 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 399 Nm | 471 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1975 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2520 mm |
