1971 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Dodge Caliber
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2009 Dodge Caliber. (154 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Dodge Caliber. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 45 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
Because 1971 BMW 3 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 1971 BMW 3. 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, 1971 BMW 3 (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Caliber. (190 Nm @ 5100 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Caliber. 2009 Dodge Caliber has automatic transmission and 1971 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1971 BMW 3 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:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2009 Dodge Caliber | |
| Make | BMW | Dodge |
| Model | 3 | Caliber |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 181 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2640 mm |
