2002 Dodge Ram vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 Dodge Ram is newer by 5 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 5,212 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 2002 Dodge Ram. (220 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 Dodge Ram. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Dodge Ram weights approximately 110 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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, 2002 Dodge Ram, 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Dodge Ram. (408 Nm). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Dodge Ram.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Dodge Ram | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ram | SL |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5212 cc | 4971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 315 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 408 Nm | 468 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1879 kg | 1769 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5700 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3530 mm | 2520 mm |
