2008 Dodge Dakota vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Dodge Dakota is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Dakota (211 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. (176 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 139 kg more than 2008 Dodge Dakota.
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, 2008 Dodge Dakota, 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 (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Dodge Dakota. (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Dodge Dakota.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Dakota | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Dakota | E |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 2685 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 70 L |
