2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 2002 Honda Civic
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Honda Civic 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 21 more horse power than 2002 Honda Civic. (127 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 2002 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 579 kg more than 2002 Honda Civic. 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) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Honda Civic. (152 Nm). This means 2008 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Honda Civic. 2002 Honda Civic 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. 2002 Honda Civic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Caliber | 2002 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Dodge | Honda |
| Model | Caliber | Civic |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1672 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 846 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 50 L |
