2008 Dodge Ram vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Dodge Ram is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Ram (346 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (161 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Ram weights approximately 455 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram, 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, 2008 Dodge Ram (509 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 275 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Ram | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ram | SLK |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5654 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 346 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 509 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5840 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3580 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 70 L |
