2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 1988 Suzuki Vitara
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Suzuki Vitara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Suzuki Vitara 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 @ 6500 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1988 Suzuki Vitara. (75 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1988 Suzuki Vitara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 415 kg more than 1988 Suzuki Vitara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Suzuki Vitara is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Dodge Caliber. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Suzuki Vitara will offer significantly more control. 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 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Suzuki Vitara. (123 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Suzuki Vitara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Caliber | 1988 Suzuki Vitara | |
| Make | Dodge | Suzuki |
| Model | Caliber | Vitara |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 3100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1930 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2210 mm |
