2002 Dodge Stratus vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Dodge Stratus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Dodge Stratus would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 2002 Dodge Stratus. (145 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2002 Dodge Stratus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Dodge Stratus weights approximately 70 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Dodge Stratus, 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK (359 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Dodge Stratus. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Dodge Stratus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Dodge Stratus | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Stratus | SLK |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 70 L |
