2003 Dodge Ram vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 9 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (518 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 345 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Ram. (173 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 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 130 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS.
Because 2003 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 Mercedes-Benz CLS (699 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 394 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Ram. (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Ram. 2012 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Ram | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ram | CLS |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3906 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2070 kg | 1940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4996 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1407 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2875 mm |
