2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1998 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 11 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Ram. (242 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Ram. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 820 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 1998 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 1998 Dodge Ram (453 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (359 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1998 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Dodge |
| Model | SLK | Ram |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 5899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 453 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 2130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4110 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 2030 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2790 mm |
