1998 Suzuki Samurai vs. 2011 Dodge Caliber
To start off, 2011 Dodge Caliber is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Dodge Caliber (172 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1998 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1998 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 478 kg more than 1998 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Dodge Caliber. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Suzuki Samurai will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Dodge Caliber (223 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Suzuki Samurai. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Suzuki Samurai | 2011 Dodge Caliber | |
| Make | Suzuki | Dodge |
| Model | Samurai | Caliber |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1408 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4415 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1534 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2634 mm |
