2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Caliber (154 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 135 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. 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 (190 Nm @ 5100 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (166 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Dodge Caliber has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Dodge Caliber will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Caliber | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caliber | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |
