2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2008 Dodge Caliber. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Dodge Caliber. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 10 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 2002 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 2002 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Dodge Caliber. (170 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2002 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 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Caliber | SL |
Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1798 cc | 3724 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 242 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 85.9 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1755 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 80 L |