1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2012 Dodge Ram is newer by 14 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 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Dodge Ram (345 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Ram 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 2012 Dodge Ram.
Because 2012 Dodge Ram 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, 2012 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, 2012 Dodge Ram (510 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Dodge Ram 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 | 2012 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Dodge |
| Model | SL | Ram |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 5654 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 345 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1691 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 6350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 2000 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 4080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 132 L |
