2006 Dodge Caliber vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Dodge Caliber is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (150 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2006 Dodge Caliber. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2006 Dodge Caliber. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 213 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Dodge Caliber (310 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (202 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2006 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Dodge Caliber | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caliber | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 191 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1212 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.1 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |
