2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 1997 Ford Escort
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Escort 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 94 more horse power than 1997 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Escort.
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 @ 4400 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Caliber | 1997 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caliber | Escort |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 1391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1450 mm |
