2003 Dodge Stratus vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Dodge Stratus is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,789 cc (12 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (362 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Stratus. (146 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Stratus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 580 kg more than 2003 Dodge Stratus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (540 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 326 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Stratus. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Stratus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Stratus | 1999 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Stratus | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 5789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 87 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 88 L |
