2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Dodge Challenger
To start off, 2012 Dodge Challenger is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Dodge Challenger (376 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Challenger should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Dodge Challenger weights approximately 4 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Dodge Challenger (555 Nm) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. (460 Nm). This means 2012 Dodge Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Dodge Challenger | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Dodge |
| Model | SL | Challenger |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 5700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 376 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5150 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 555 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1848 kg | 1852 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 5022 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1923 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2946 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.2 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 72 L |
