2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 1997 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Microbus would be higher. At 2,551 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Caliber (154 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. (134 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 235 kg more than 2009 Dodge Caliber.
Because 1997 Volkswagen Microbus is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Microbus (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Caliber. (190 Nm @ 5100 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Microbus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Caliber. 2009 Dodge Caliber has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Microbus has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Microbus 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 | 1997 Volkswagen Microbus | |
Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
Model | Caliber | Microbus |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2551 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 154 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 200 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1660 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1960 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2470 mm |