2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 2003 Lexus IS
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lexus IS would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Caliber (154 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2003 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus IS weights approximately 40 kg more than 2008 Dodge Caliber.
Because 2003 Lexus IS is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2003 Lexus IS (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Dodge Caliber. (190 Nm @ 5100 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Dodge Caliber.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Caliber | 2003 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Dodge | Lexus |
| Model | Caliber | IS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 70 L |
