2007 Dodge Caliber vs. 1986 Volvo 242
To start off, 2007 Dodge Caliber is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volvo 242. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volvo 242 would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Dodge Caliber (154 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1986 Volvo 242. (97 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1986 Volvo 242. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 135 kg more than 1986 Volvo 242. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Volvo 242 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 1986 Volvo 242. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Dodge Caliber (190 Nm @ 5100 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volvo 242. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2007 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volvo 242. 2007 Dodge Caliber has automatic transmission and 1986 Volvo 242 has manual transmission. 1986 Volvo 242 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Dodge Caliber will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Dodge Caliber | 1986 Volvo 242 | |
| Make | Dodge | Volvo |
| Model | Caliber | 242 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2660 mm |
