2003 Dodge Ram vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Dodge Ram (215 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 210 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (5 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Ram weights approximately 389 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (370 Nm) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Ram. (319 Nm). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Ram. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Ram | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ram | SLK |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3700 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 5 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1930 kg | 1541 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5280 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2431 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 60 L |
