1983 Dodge Charger vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Dodge Charger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Dodge Charger would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 396 more horse power than 1983 Dodge Charger. (97 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1983 Dodge Charger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 925 kg more than 1983 Dodge Charger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Dodge Charger, 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 539 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Dodge Charger. (161 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Dodge Charger.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Dodge Charger | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Charger | CL |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2213 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2890 mm |
