2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2008 Dodge Caliber. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2008 Dodge Caliber. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 399 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Dodge Caliber. (170 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Dodge Caliber. 2012 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. 2012 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Dodge Caliber | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
Model | Caliber | Golf |
Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1346 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4199 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Consumption City | 9.8 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |