2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 1996 Proton 400
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Proton 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Proton 400 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 49 more horse power than 1996 Proton 400. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1996 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 410 kg more than 1996 Proton 400. 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 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Proton 400. (126 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Caliber | 1996 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Dodge | Proton |
| Model | Caliber | 400 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1466 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2510 mm |
