2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 1978 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Caliber (154 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 300 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda RX-7 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 1978 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Dodge Caliber (190 Nm @ 5100 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Caliber | 1978 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Caliber | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 65 L |
