2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2008 Dodge Caliber. (154 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 2008 Dodge Caliber. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 90 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle.
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, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Dodge Caliber. (190 Nm @ 5100 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Dodge Caliber.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Caliber | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caliber | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |
