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 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 12 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (142 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 246 kg more than 2009 Dodge Caliber.
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 (190 Nm @ 5100 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (168 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. 2009 Dodge Caliber has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 | 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 | 1998 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.3 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1671 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 50 L |
