2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Caliber (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. (113 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 50 kg more than 2008 Dodge Caliber.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 (185 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Dodge Caliber. (170 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Dodge Caliber.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Caliber | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caliber | 300 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 70 L |
