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. Both 2009 Dodge Caliber and 1996 Proton 400 are equipped with a 1,998 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Caliber (154 HP) has 87 more horse power than 1996 Proton 400. (67 HP). 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 310 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 (190 Nm @ 5100 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Proton 400. (123 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. 2009 Dodge Caliber has automatic transmission and 1996 Proton 400 has manual transmission. 1996 Proton 400 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Dodge Caliber will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 1998 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1115 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 |
