2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Dodge Caliber
To start off, 2012 Dodge Caliber is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,987 cc, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2012 Dodge Caliber. (158 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2012 Dodge Caliber. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 451 kg more than 2012 Dodge Caliber. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (511 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 320 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Dodge Caliber. (191 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Dodge Caliber. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2012 Dodge Caliber has manual transmission. 2012 Dodge Caliber will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 2012 Dodge Caliber | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Dodge |
| Model | C | Caliber |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 2000 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 511 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1334 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4415 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1534 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2634 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 51 L |
