2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Caliber (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. (129 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 200 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. 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 (310 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. (149 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Caliber | 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Dodge | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Caliber | 146 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1712 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 50 L |
