2003 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1997 Dodge Intrepid
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Dodge Intrepid. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Dodge Intrepid would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (469 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 255 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Intrepid. (214 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Intrepid. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 330 kg more than 1997 Dodge Intrepid. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Intrepid, 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Intrepid. (339 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Intrepid.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | 1997 Dodge Intrepid | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Dodge |
| Model | E | Intrepid |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 3518 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 469 HP | 214 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 339 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 5123 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 68 L |
