2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Caliber (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 50 kg more than 2008 Dodge Caliber.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz C 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, both vehicles can yield 170 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Caliber | 1998 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caliber | C |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 85.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 62 L |
