2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 2003 Ford Focus
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Focus 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 75 more horse power than 2003 Ford Focus. (73 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 235 kg more than 2003 Ford Focus. 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 @ 5200 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Focus. (125 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Caliber | 2003 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caliber | Focus |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1387 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |
