2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 2001 Honda S-MX
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Honda S-MX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Honda S-MX 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 @ 6300 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2001 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 2001 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 95 kg more than 2001 Honda S-MX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Dodge Caliber. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Honda S-MX will offer significantly more control. 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, both vehicles can yield 190 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2009 Dodge Caliber has automatic transmission and 2001 Honda S-MX has manual transmission. 2001 Honda S-MX 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 | 2001 Honda S-MX | |
| Make | Dodge | Honda |
| Model | Caliber | S-MX |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2510 mm |
