2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 1987 Pontiac Fiero
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Pontiac Fiero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Pontiac Fiero would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Pontiac Fiero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Caliber (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1987 Pontiac Fiero. (140 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1987 Pontiac Fiero. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 148 kg more than 1987 Pontiac Fiero. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Pontiac Fiero 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 1987 Pontiac Fiero. 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, 1987 Pontiac Fiero (220 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Dodge Caliber. (170 Nm). This means 1987 Pontiac Fiero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Dodge Caliber.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Caliber | 1987 Pontiac Fiero | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Caliber | Fiero |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1212 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2380 mm |
