2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Caliber (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 699 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. 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 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Caliber | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Caliber | 323 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.9 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 50 L |
