1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2010 Dodge Caliber
To start off, 2010 Dodge Caliber is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,745 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2010 Dodge Caliber. (158 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2010 Dodge Caliber.
Because 1979 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 1979 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Dodge Caliber. (191 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Dodge Caliber. 1979 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. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2010 Dodge Caliber | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Dodge |
| Model | 280 | Caliber |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2745 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 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 Length | 5000 mm | 4415 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1534 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2634 mm |
