2007 Dodge Caliber vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2007 Dodge Caliber is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Dodge Caliber (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 115 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Dodge Caliber. (170 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Dodge Caliber.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Dodge Caliber | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caliber | SLK |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1998 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2410 mm |
