2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 1979 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 3,273 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Caliber (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1979 Ford Mustang. (90 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 265 kg more than 1979 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Ford Mustang 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 1979 Ford Mustang. 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 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Mustang. (209 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Caliber | 1979 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caliber | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 3273 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2560 mm |
