2002 Dodge Viper vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Dodge Viper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Dodge Viper would be higher. At 8,277 cc (10 cylinders), 2002 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2002 Dodge Viper. (460 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 Dodge Viper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 123 kg more than 2002 Dodge Viper. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Dodge Viper. (678 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Dodge Viper. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2002 Dodge Viper has manual transmission. 2002 Dodge Viper will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Dodge Viper | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Viper | SL |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 8277 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 460 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 678 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1857 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2570 mm |
