2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 1980 Ford Escort
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Caliber (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (43 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort.
Because 1980 Ford Escort 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 1980 Ford Escort. 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 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (71 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Caliber | 1980 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caliber | Escort |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1098 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 71 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 45 L |
