1998 Dodge Ram vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 14 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (518 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 345 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Ram. (173 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Ram. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 275 kg more than 1998 Dodge Ram. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (699 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 394 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Dodge Ram. (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Dodge Ram. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Dodge Ram | 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ram | ML |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3906 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2070 kg | 2345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4803 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1796 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2916 mm |
