2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 1981 Nissan Cherry
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Cherry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Cherry would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Caliber (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Cherry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 510 kg more than 1981 Nissan Cherry. 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, 2008 Dodge Caliber (170 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (123 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Cherry. 1981 Nissan Cherry has automatic transmission and 2008 Dodge Caliber has manual transmission. 2008 Dodge Caliber will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Nissan Cherry will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Caliber | 1981 Nissan Cherry | |
| Make | Dodge | Nissan |
| Model | Caliber | Cherry |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2400 mm |
