2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Caliber (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 640 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Dodge Caliber. (170 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Dodge Caliber.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Dodge Caliber | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
Model | Caliber | Golf |
Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1105 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4148 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1735 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2512 mm |