1971 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2010 Dodge Caliber
To start off, 2010 Dodge Caliber is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Dodge Caliber (172 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Dodge Caliber, 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Dodge Caliber. (223 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Dodge Caliber.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2010 Dodge Caliber | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Dodge |
| Model | SL | Caliber |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4415 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1534 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2634 mm |
