2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (212 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2009 Dodge Caliber. (154 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 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 14 kg more than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2011 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 2011 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, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Caliber. (190 Nm @ 5100 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Caliber.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Caliber | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Caliber | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2703 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 64 L |
