2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 1989 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Toyota MR2 (221 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2008 Dodge Caliber. (154 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 2008 Dodge Caliber. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 120 kg more than 1989 Toyota MR2.
Because 1989 Toyota MR2 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 1989 Toyota MR2. 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, 1989 Toyota MR2 (305 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Dodge Caliber. (190 Nm @ 5100 RPM). This means 1989 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Dodge Caliber.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Caliber | 1989 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Dodge | Toyota |
| Model | Caliber | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |
