2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 1977 Ford Cortina
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Ford Cortina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Caliber (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1977 Ford Cortina. (86 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Cortina.
Because 1977 Ford Cortina 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 1977 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Dodge Caliber (170 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Cortina. (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Caliber | 1977 Ford Cortina | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caliber | Cortina |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2580 mm |
