2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 1983 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 2,294 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Caliber (154 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1983 Ford Mustang. (88 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 175 kg more than 1983 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Ford Mustang 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 1983 Ford Mustang. 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 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Mustang. (161 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Caliber | 1983 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caliber | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2560 mm |
