2006 Dodge Caliber vs. 2009 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Dodge Caliber. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Dodge Caliber would be higher. At 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (207 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2006 Dodge Caliber. (154 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2006 Dodge Caliber. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 388 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Because 2009 Ford Explorer 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 2009 Ford Explorer. 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, 2009 Ford Explorer (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Dodge Caliber. (190 Nm @ 5100 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Dodge Caliber.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Dodge Caliber | 2009 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caliber | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 4009 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 254 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 4.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 972 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 5350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 3320 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 85 L |
