2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 1981 Dodge Omni
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Dodge Omni. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Dodge Omni would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Caliber (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1981 Dodge Omni. (64 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1981 Dodge Omni. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 485 kg more than 1981 Dodge Omni. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Dodge Omni. (115 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Dodge Omni.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Caliber | 1981 Dodge Omni | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Caliber | Omni |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 53 L |
