1988 Dodge Spirit vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 20 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (269 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1988 Dodge Spirit. (141 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1988 Dodge Spirit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 471 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Dodge Spirit. (232 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Dodge Spirit.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Dodge Spirit | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Spirit | SL |
Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2972 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 141 HP | 269 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 232 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 92.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 86 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1354 kg | 1825 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2570 mm |