2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Golf 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 99 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 610 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. 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 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Dodge Caliber | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
Model | Caliber | Golf |
Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1093 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 49 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 79 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 69.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 750 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 3830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 45 L |