1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2010 Dodge Caliber
To start off, 2010 Dodge Caliber is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 2010 Dodge Caliber. (172 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2010 Dodge Caliber.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Dodge Caliber, 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 238 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Dodge Caliber. (223 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Dodge Caliber. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2010 Dodge Caliber has manual transmission. 2010 Dodge Caliber will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2010 Dodge Caliber | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Dodge |
| Model | SL | Caliber |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4415 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1534 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2634 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.6 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 17.9 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 51 L |
