1980 BMW 316 vs. 2009 Dodge Caliber

To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Caliber (154 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1980 BMW 316. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1980 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 355 kg more than 1980 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1980 BMW 316 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 1980 BMW 316. 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, 2009 Dodge Caliber (190 Nm @ 5100 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 BMW 316. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 BMW 316. 2009 Dodge Caliber has automatic transmission and 1980 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1980 BMW 316 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:

1980 BMW 316 2009 Dodge Caliber
Make BMW Dodge
Model 316 Caliber
Year Released 1980 2009
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1573 cc 1998 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 89 HP 154 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6300 RPM
Torque 124 Nm 190 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 5100 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Top Speed 175 km/hour 181 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1070 kg 1425 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4420 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1750 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1540 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2640 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 58 L 51 L