2003 Dodge Ram vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Dodge Ram. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Dodge Ram would be higher. At 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Ram. (215 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Ram. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Ram weights approximately 200 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS (350 Nm) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Ram. (319 Nm). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Ram. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 2003 Dodge Ram has manual transmission. 2003 Dodge Ram will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Ram | 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ram | CLS |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3700 cc | 3495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1930 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5280 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 89 L |
