2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Caliber (154 HP) has 80 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 370 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. 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 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 2009 Dodge Caliber has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 323 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 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Caliber | 323 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |
