2006 Dodge Caliber vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Dodge Caliber (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 297 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 165 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Dodge Caliber | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Caliber | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1598 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 191 km/hour | 183 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 12.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1128 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.1 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |
