2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Caliber (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 690 kg more than 2008 Dodge Caliber.
Because 1995 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 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK (191 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Dodge Caliber. (170 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Dodge Caliber. 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2008 Dodge Caliber has manual transmission. 2008 Dodge Caliber will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Caliber | 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caliber | SLK |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.1 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.8 L/100km | 13.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.3 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 53 L |
