Coca-Cola Classic and Mountain Dew cater to different preferences and demographics. Coca-Cola Classic offers a classic cola flavor with a broad appeal, while Mountain Dew provides a citrusy, high-energy option targeted towards younger, more active individuals. Both brands have sugar-free alternatives, but Mountain Dew generally contains more sugar and caffeine in its regular version.
| Attribute | Coca-Cola Classic | Mountain Dew |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor Profile | Sweet, caramel-like flavor with a slightly acidic tang and hints of vanilla and spice | Citrus-flavored. The original formula was a lemon-lime flavored drink. |
| Sugar Content | 39 grams per 12-ounce can | A 200ml serving contains 24.6g of sugars. A 12 oz (355 ml) can contains 47g of sugar. A 16.9 fl oz (500 ml) bottle contains 65g of added sugars. A 375ml can contains 46.1g of sugar. |
| Caffeine Content | 34 mg per 12-ounce can (23 mg per 8 fl oz) | A 12 oz (355 ml) can of Mountain Dew contains 54 mg of caffeine. A 16.9 fl oz (500 ml) bottle contains 77 mg of caffeine. A 24 oz can contains 109 mg of caffeine. A 375ml can contains caffeine. |
| Calorie Count | 140 calories per 12-ounce can | A 12 oz can has 170-174 calories. A 20 fl oz bottle contains 290 calories. A 355ml can has 172 calories. A 500 ml bottle has 240 calories. |
| Ingredients | Carbonated water, sugar or high fructose corn syrup, caramel color, phosphoric acid, natural flavors, and caffeine. No added preservatives. | Carbonated water, high-fructose corn syrup (in much of the U.S.), concentrated orange juice, citric acid, natural flavors, sodium benzoate, caffeine, sodium citrate, erythorbic acid, gum arabic, Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, and yellow 5. |
| Artificial Sweeteners | Sugar-free versions like Coca-Cola Zero Sugar and Diet Coke available | Diet Mountain Dew uses a blend of sucralose, aspartame, and acesulfame potassium. Mountain Dew Zero Sugar uses artificial sweeteners. |
| Preservatives | No added preservatives. | Sodium benzoate and erythorbic acid are used as preservatives. |
| Carbonation Level | High | Generally considered a high carbonation level. |
| Packaging Options | Cans, glass bottles, and plastic bottles of various sizes, including mini cans, single-serve bottles, and multi-packs. Slim cans are also available. | Available in cans, bottles, and multi-packs. Sizes include 12 oz, 20 oz, 24 oz, and larger bottles. |
| Price per Volume | Varies depending on location and retailer. Example: $3.27 per liter for a 1.25L bottle. | Prices vary. In 2020, a 12oz can was listed at approximately $1.08. Wholesale prices for Mountain Dew 1L were listed between $1-2.20. |
| Dietary Options | Sugar-free versions like Coca-Cola Zero Sugar and Diet Coke available | Sugar-free (Mountain Dew Zero Sugar) and low-calorie (Diet Mountain Dew) options are available. |
| Availability | Widely available in stores and online | Available in stores and online. |
| Brand Reputation and History | Iconic global brand with a long history dating back to 1886. Known for consistent taste and classic packaging. | Created in the 1940s in Tennessee by Barney and Ally Hartman as a mixer for whiskey. Acquired by PepsiCo in 1964, who shifted the brand image to target a younger demographic. Known for its association with extreme sports and youth culture. |
| Target Audience | Broad audience, ranging from teenagers to older adults, particularly those aged 10 to 35. Aims to be affordable for various income levels. | Primarily targets youth and teenagers (16-25 years old), particularly those interested in adventure and extreme sports. Also targets energetic individuals who love excitement, Gen Z (ages 10-25) and Millennials (ages 26-41). |