2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Dodge Caliber. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Dodge Caliber would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Caliber (285 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 2012 Lexus IS. (150 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 2012 Lexus IS.
Because 2012 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 2012 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, 2008 Dodge Caliber (359 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Lexus IS. (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Lexus IS. 2012 Lexus IS 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. 2012 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Caliber | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Dodge | Lexus |
| Model | Caliber | IS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 2231 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 285 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 65 L |
