2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 1983 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Polo 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) has 109 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 660 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. 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 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Caliber | 1983 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caliber | Polo |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 39 HP |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 59 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| 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 | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |
