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 2,294 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Ford Cortina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Caliber (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1977 Ford Cortina. (108 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 297 kg more than 1977 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (310 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Cortina. (176 Nm @ 3000 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 | 1968 cc | 2294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 60.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1128 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 54 L |
