1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2011 Dodge Dakota is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Dodge Dakota (211 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 119 kg more than 2011 Dodge Dakota.
Because 2011 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Dodge Dakota (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Dodge |
| Model | SL | Dakota |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 3701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 87.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1691 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 83 L |
