2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 2008 Dodge Caliber. (154 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Dodge Caliber. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 409 kg more than 2008 Dodge Caliber. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 278 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Dodge Caliber. (190 Nm @ 5100 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Dodge Caliber.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Dodge Caliber | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Caliber | SL |
Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1996 cc | 4971 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 154 HP | 315 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 468 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 96.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1769 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 80 L |