2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Dodge Caliber. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Dodge Caliber would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Caliber (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2011 Kia Optima. (166 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 2011 Kia Optima.
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 (220 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Kia Optima. (209 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Kia Optima. 2011 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2009 Dodge Caliber has manual transmission. 2009 Dodge Caliber will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Caliber | 2011 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Dodge | Kia |
| Model | Caliber | Optima |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 65 L |
