2007 Dodge Caliber vs. 1989 Ford Fairlane

To start off, 2007 Dodge Caliber is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 3,949 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Fairlane (186 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2007 Dodge Caliber. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Fairlane should accelerate faster than 2007 Dodge Caliber. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 135 kg more than 2007 Dodge Caliber. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1989 Ford Fairlane 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 1989 Ford Fairlane. 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, 1989 Ford Fairlane (338 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Dodge Caliber. (310 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Dodge Caliber. 1989 Ford Fairlane has automatic transmission and 2007 Dodge Caliber has manual transmission. 2007 Dodge Caliber will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Ford Fairlane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2007 Dodge Caliber 1989 Ford Fairlane
Make Dodge Ford
Model Caliber Fairlane
Year Released 2007 1989
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1968 cc 3949 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 138 HP 186 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 4250 RPM
Torque 310 Nm 338 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 3500 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1425 kg 1560 kg
Vehicle Length 4420 mm 5030 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1540 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2640 mm 2930 mm