2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 1988 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 2,351 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Caliber (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1988 Hyundai Sonata. (110 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1988 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 208 kg more than 1988 Hyundai Sonata. 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, 1988 Hyundai Sonata (193 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Dodge Caliber. (170 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 1988 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Dodge Caliber.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Caliber | 1988 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Dodge | Hyundai |
| Model | Caliber | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2351 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 193 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1217 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2660 mm |
