2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 2006 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Nissan 350Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Nissan 350Z would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan 350Z (276 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 2009 Dodge Caliber. (154 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2009 Dodge Caliber. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 285 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 2006 Nissan 350Z 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 2006 Nissan 350Z. 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, 2006 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Caliber. (190 Nm @ 5100 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Caliber. 2009 Dodge Caliber has automatic transmission and 2006 Nissan 350Z has manual transmission. 2006 Nissan 350Z 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 | 2006 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Dodge | Nissan |
| Model | Caliber | 350Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 181 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.3 seconds | 6.4 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 | 1710 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 80 L |
