2006 Dodge Caliber vs. 1998 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2006 Dodge Caliber is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Dodge Ram. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Dodge Ram would be higher. At 3,905 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Ram (173 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2006 Dodge Caliber. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2006 Dodge Caliber. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 645 kg more than 2006 Dodge Caliber. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Dodge Ram 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 1998 Dodge Ram. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Dodge Caliber (310 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Dodge Ram. (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Dodge Ram.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Dodge Caliber | 1998 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Caliber | Ram |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 3905 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 2070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 2030 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2790 mm |
