2009 Chevrolet Equinox vs. 2008 Dodge Caliber
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Equinox is newer by 1 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 3,425 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Equinox is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Equinox (185 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2008 Dodge Caliber. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Equinox should accelerate faster than 2008 Dodge Caliber. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Equinox weights approximately 124 kg more than 2008 Dodge Caliber. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Chevrolet Equinox 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, 2009 Chevrolet Equinox 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, 2009 Chevrolet Equinox (285 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Dodge Caliber. (170 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Equinox will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Dodge Caliber. 2009 Chevrolet Equinox 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. 2009 Chevrolet Equinox will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Equinox | 2008 Dodge Caliber | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Equinox | Caliber |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3425 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.8 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.8 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 7.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 51 L |
