1998 Dodge Ram vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Dodge Ram. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Dodge Ram would be higher. At 5,208 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Ram. (223 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Ram. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 654 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 1998 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Ram 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, 1998 Dodge Ram (399 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1998 Dodge Ram has manual transmission. 1998 Dodge Ram will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Dodge Ram | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ram | SLK |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5208 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 399 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2100 kg | 1446 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2440 mm |
