2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 1985 Suzuki Alto
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Suzuki Alto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Suzuki Alto 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 100 more horse power than 1985 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1985 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 855 kg more than 1985 Suzuki Alto. 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 261 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Suzuki Alto. (59 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Caliber | 1985 Suzuki Alto | |
| Make | Dodge | Suzuki |
| Model | Caliber | Alto |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 59 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 3310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2180 mm |
