2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 2006 Kia Optima
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Kia Optima would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2009 Dodge Caliber. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2009 Dodge Caliber. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 102 kg more than 2009 Dodge Caliber. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Dodge Caliber is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Kia Optima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber 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, 2006 Kia Optima (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Caliber. (170 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Caliber.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Caliber | 2006 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Dodge | Kia |
| Model | Caliber | Optima |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2671 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1487 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.3 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 65 L |
