2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2010 Dodge Caliber
To start off, 2010 Dodge Caliber is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 2010 Dodge Caliber. (158 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2010 Dodge Caliber. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 94 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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 Mercedes-Benz SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 319 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Dodge Caliber. (191 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Dodge Caliber. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2010 Dodge Caliber has manual transmission. 2010 Dodge Caliber will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2010 Dodge Caliber | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Dodge |
| Model | SLK | Caliber |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 355 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1334 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4415 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1534 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2634 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.8 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 16.8 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 51 L |
