2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2009 Dodge Caliber. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Dodge Caliber. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 60 kg more than 2007 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2007 Mazda RX-8 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. 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 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Caliber | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Caliber | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 223 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 7.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.1 L/100km | 12.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 61 L |
