1989 Dodge Spirit vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Dodge Spirit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Dodge Spirit would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1989 Dodge Spirit. (150 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1989 Dodge Spirit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 859 kg more than 1989 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 R 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 R. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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 R (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Dodge Spirit. (244 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Dodge Spirit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Dodge Spirit | 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spirit | R |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2213 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1316 kg | 2175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 3220 mm |
