2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Dodge Caliber. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Dodge Caliber would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (523 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 369 more horse power than 2009 Dodge Caliber. (154 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Dodge Caliber. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 420 kg more than 2009 Dodge Caliber. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 610 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Caliber. (190 Nm @ 5100 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Caliber. 2009 Dodge Caliber has automatic transmission and 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Dodge Caliber will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Caliber | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caliber | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 523 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 181 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.3 seconds | 4.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4633 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2099 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2585 mm |
