2021 Dodge Charger vs 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, reminiscent of its predecessors, boasted a smooth, rounded body that echoed the design language of the larger S-Class and smaller C-Class. Despite its streamlined appearance, which some felt could use a few more edges, it was a versatile design available in sedan, wagon, coupe, or cabriolet forms. The E-Class exuded a conservative elegance, especially with the traditional hood ornament and chrome grille on the sedan. LED lighting added a delicate touch, and the car's proportions were visually appealing across various models, whether on 17-inch wheels or 20s with ground effects. The cabriolet particularly shone with its contrasting soft top and luxurious interior, featuring multi-tone leathers and polished wood. The high-resolution digital screens and ambient lighting created a sophisticated atmosphere, making even the base model feel a cut above its competitors.

The 2021 Dodge Charger, in contrast, maintained a consistent design over the years, appealing to a "brotherhood of muscle" with its bold, muscular stance. The model offered a wide range of variants, from the base SXT to the high-performance SRT Hellcat Redeye. The Charger was available in regular and widebody formats, with the latter providing a more athletic look. The car featured a variety of tire, wheel, and color options, allowing for customization. While the interior had been updated, it still lacked some modern comforts, with a fair amount of hard plastic and rubberized surfaces. Cloth seats were standard, with Nappa leather available on higher trims. Despite its utilitarian feel, the Charger offered a spacious cabin and trunk, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class offered a range of powertrains, starting with the E350's turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing 255 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. While it provided a smooth ride, the E350's performance was more suited for leisurely drives, with the E450's 3.0-liter V6 offering a more robust 362 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more excitement, the AMG E53 and AMG E63 S models delivered 429 hp and 603 hp, respectively, with the latter featuring a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8. The E-Class offered a comfortable and composed ride, with AWD available on most models, and fuel economy ranging from 19 to 32 mpg depending on the configuration.

The 2021 Dodge Charger excelled in performance, with a variety of engine options catering to different preferences. The base models featured a 3.6-liter V6 with up to 300 hp, while the R/T offered a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 with 370 hp. The Scat Pack models boasted a 6.4-liter HEMI V8 with 485 hp, and the SRT Hellcat models took it further with a supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8, producing 717 hp. The top-tier SRT Hellcat Redeye delivered an impressive 797 hp. While the Charger offered a thrilling driving experience, its fuel efficiency was lower, with the Hellcat Redeye achieving just 12 mpg in the city. The Charger provided a connected driving experience with configurable drive modes and performance-tuned features.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured a complex COMAND infotainment system, which could be overwhelming for new users. Despite its complexity, the system offered a range of functions, including ambient lighting and a high-resolution digital dash. The E-Class provided ample interior space, with a functional design that included seat climate controls on the door panels and a rear-facing jump seat in the wagon. The coupe offered a usable rear seat, and the overall interior was designed for comfort and convenience.

The 2021 Dodge Charger, as a spacious four-door sedan, balanced performance with practicality. The interior featured a dated but functional instrument cluster, with a steering wheel that provided easy access to in-car functions. Paddle shifters were available on most models, and the rear seat offered a 60/40 split-folding option for additional cargo space. While the Charger provided average cargo space compared to other large cars, it was a practical choice for families.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was equipped with advanced technology, including a semi-automated driving system and a V2X communication system. The car offered a range of tech-forward features, such as multi-contour seats, a Burmester stereo, and a Track Pace app for AMG models. While some features were considered novelties, the E-Class was overengineered with useful tech, providing a luxurious driving experience.

The 2021 Dodge Charger came with standard features like push-button start, a rearview camera, and a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen. Optional features included a sunroof, dual-zone climate control, and a larger 8.4-inch touchscreen. While the Uconnect infotainment system was easy to navigate, some functions were buried in menus. The Charger lacked a head-up display, and its buttons and dials felt less modern compared to competitors.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class received high safety ratings, with the sedan and wagon earning a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. The car featured innovative safety technologies, such as Pre-Safe Sound and side bolster inflation during a collision. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, with additional driver-assist features available as options.

The 2021 Dodge Charger received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with the 2020 model earning mostly "Good" ratings from the IIHS. Standard safety features included brake assist, electronic stability control, and rear park assist. Optional features like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring were available on select models.