1988 Dodge Spirit vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Dodge Spirit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Dodge Spirit would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1988 Dodge Spirit. (141 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1988 Dodge Spirit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 511 kg more than 1988 Dodge Spirit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Dodge Spirit, 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 228 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Dodge Spirit. (232 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Dodge Spirit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Dodge Spirit | 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spirit | CL |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2972 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 232 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1354 kg | 1865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2720 mm |
