2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 (285 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (140 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2009 Dodge Caliber (359 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (160 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Caliber | 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Caliber | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 285 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 50 L |
