2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1998 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 10 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 287 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Ram. (223 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Ram. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 150 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1998 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 431 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Dodge Ram. (399 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Dodge Ram.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1998 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Dodge |
| Model | SL | Ram |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 5208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 223 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 830 Nm | 399 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 2100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 2030 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2790 mm |
