2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 2008 Ford S-Max
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Ford S-Max. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Ford S-Max would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Caliber (285 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2008 Ford S-Max. (217 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford S-Max.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford S-Max. (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford S-Max.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Caliber | 2008 Ford S-Max | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caliber | S-Max |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 285 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 70 L |
