2004 Dodge Ram vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Dodge Ram is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 2004 Dodge Ram. (235 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Dodge Ram. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Ram weights approximately 416 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2004 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (570 Nm) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Dodge Ram. (407 Nm). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Dodge Ram.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Ram | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ram | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4703 cc | 5987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 235 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 89.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 80.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2466 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6350 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1950 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 4080 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 80 L |
