2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 1998 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Caliber (285 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1998 Ford Taurus. (200 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Taurus.
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 (359 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Taurus. (264 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Taurus. 1998 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 2008 Dodge Caliber has manual transmission. 2008 Dodge Caliber will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Caliber | 1998 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caliber | Taurus |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 285 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
