2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1998 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Dodge Ram. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Dodge Ram would be higher. At 5,899 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Ram (242 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 400 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (510 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Dodge Ram. (453 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Dodge Ram. 1998 Dodge Ram has automatic transmission and 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK has manual transmission. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Dodge Ram will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1998 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Dodge |
| Model | CLK | Ram |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 5899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 453 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 2130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 2030 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2790 mm |
