2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 1 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 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine.
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, 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Caliber. (220 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Caliber. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Caliber | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caliber | SLK |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 97 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.1 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.9 L/100km | 11.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 60 L |
