2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 2003 Kia Opirus
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Kia Opirus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Kia Opirus would be higher. At 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Kia Opirus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Caliber (285 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 2003 Kia Opirus. (196 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 2003 Kia Opirus.
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 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Kia Opirus. (295 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Kia Opirus. 2003 Kia Opirus 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. 2003 Kia Opirus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Caliber | 2003 Kia Opirus | |
| Make | Dodge | Kia |
| Model | Caliber | Opirus |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 3497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 285 HP | 196 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 295 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2810 mm |
