1988 Dodge Spirit vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 24 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 368 more horse power than 1988 Dodge Spirit. (150 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1988 Dodge Spirit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 536 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (699 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 455 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Dodge Spirit. (244 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Dodge Spirit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Dodge Spirit | 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spirit | E |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2213 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1316 kg | 1852 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4887 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1443 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2875 mm |
