1988 Dodge Spirit vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 23 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 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 377 more horse power than 1988 Dodge Spirit. (141 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1988 Dodge Spirit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 585 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 2011 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 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (630 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 398 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Dodge Spirit. (232 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spirit | SL |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2972 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 232 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1354 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4592 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2560 mm |
