2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 2004 Ford Focus

To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Focus 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 26 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 146 kg more than 2004 Ford Focus. 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 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (178 Nm @ 4150 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Focus. 2009 Dodge Caliber has automatic transmission and 2004 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2004 Ford Focus 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 2004 Ford Focus
Make Dodge Ford
Model Caliber Focus
Year Released 2009 2004
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1998 cc 1595 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 154 HP 128 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 190 Nm 178 Nm
Torque RPM 5100 RPM 4150 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 11.0:1
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1425 kg 1279 kg
Vehicle Length 4420 mm 4480 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1850 mm
Vehicle Height 1540 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2640 mm 2650 mm