2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,786 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (362 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 214 more horse power than 2009 Dodge Caliber. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Dodge Caliber.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (530 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 360 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Caliber. (170 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Caliber. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2009 Dodge Caliber has manual transmission. 2009 Dodge Caliber will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Caliber | 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caliber | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 5786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 9.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.8 L/100km | 19.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 13.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 88 L |
