2003 Dodge Dakota vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Dodge Dakota. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Dodge Dakota would be higher. At 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS (563 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 445 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS weights approximately 125 kg more than 2003 Dodge Dakota. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS (649 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 453 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Dakota. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS has automatic transmission and 2003 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 2003 Dodge Dakota will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Dakota | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Dakota | SLS |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 563 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 649 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1536 kg | 1661 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4638 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1938 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2680 mm |
