1998 Dodge Intrepid vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1998 Dodge Intrepid is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,228 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Intrepid is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Intrepid (225 HP) has 35 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Intrepid should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 190 kg more than 1998 Dodge Intrepid.
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, 1998 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, 1998 Dodge Intrepid (306 Nm) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm). This means 1998 Dodge Intrepid will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. 1998 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. 1998 Dodge Intrepid will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Dodge Intrepid | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Intrepid | SL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3228 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 190 HP |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2520 mm |
