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 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Caliber (285 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (190 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
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, 2008 Dodge Caliber (359 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (280 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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 | 2360 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 285 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.1 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 13.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 53 L |
