2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 1985 Mazda 121
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 121 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 93 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 121. (55 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 660 kg more than 1985 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Dodge Caliber is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mazda 121. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber will offer significantly more control. 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 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 121. (88 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Caliber | 1985 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Caliber | 121 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1138 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 55 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Top Speed | 179 km/hour | 145 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 725 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 3480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2370 mm |
