2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Caliber (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta.
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 (220 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (165 Nm). This means 2009 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Caliber | 1996 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caliber | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2480 mm |
