2005 Dodge Stratus vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Dodge Stratus is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2005 Dodge Stratus. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Dodge Stratus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 376 kg more than 2005 Dodge Stratus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Dodge Stratus. (214 Nm). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Dodge Stratus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Dodge Stratus | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Stratus | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2343 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1384 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
