1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 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 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 (215 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2010 Dodge Caliber. (158 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 2010 Dodge Caliber. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 262 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 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 380. 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 380 (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Dodge Caliber. (191 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Dodge Caliber. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 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 380 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 | 2010 Dodge Caliber | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Dodge |
| Model | 380 | Caliber |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3818 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 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 | 1596 kg | 1334 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4415 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1534 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2634 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 51 L |
