1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2010 Dodge Caliber
To start off, 2010 Dodge Caliber is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2010 Dodge Caliber. (158 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2010 Dodge Caliber. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 141 kg more than 2010 Dodge Caliber. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Dodge Caliber. (191 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Dodge Caliber. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 2010 Dodge Caliber has manual transmission. 2010 Dodge Caliber will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2010 Dodge Caliber | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Dodge |
| Model | 280 | Caliber |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1334 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4415 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1534 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2634 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 51 L |
