2007 Dodge Caliber vs. 2009 Kia Optima
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Dodge Caliber. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Dodge Caliber would be higher. At 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2007 Dodge Caliber. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2007 Dodge Caliber.
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, 2009 Kia Optima (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Dodge Caliber. (170 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Dodge Caliber.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Dodge Caliber | 2009 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Dodge | Kia |
| Model | Caliber | Optima |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2359 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 229 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 62 L |
