2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK
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 SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2008 Dodge Caliber. (154 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2008 Dodge Caliber. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 70 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2002 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 2002 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Dodge Caliber. (190 Nm @ 5100 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK | |
Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Caliber | SLK |
Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 154 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 234 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 70 L |