2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 1986 Ford Escort
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Escort 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 73 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 530 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. 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 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Caliber | 1986 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caliber | Escort |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 77.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 74 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 | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 54 L |
