2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 2007 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 148 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 120 kg more than 2007 Volkswagen Golf.

Because 2007 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Dodge Caliber. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 2007 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Dodge Caliber. (170 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Dodge Caliber. 2007 Volkswagen Golf 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. 2007 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Dodge Caliber 2007 Volkswagen Golf
Make Dodge Volkswagen
Model Caliber Golf
Year Released 2008 2007
Body Type Hatchback Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1798 cc 1982 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 148 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 170 Nm 200 Nm
Torque RPM 5200 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86.1 mm 82.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 77 mm 92.8 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 11.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Acceleration 0-100mph 11.9 seconds 9.2 seconds
Drive Type Front 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1360 kg 1240 kg
Vehicle Length 4420 mm 4210 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1540 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2640 mm 2590 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 7.3 L/100km 8.4 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 51 L 55 L