2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 2012 Dodge Durango
To start off, 2012 Dodge Durango is newer by 3 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 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Dodge Durango is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Dodge Durango (360 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 206 more horse power than 2009 Dodge Caliber. (154 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Durango should accelerate faster than 2009 Dodge Caliber. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Dodge Durango weights approximately 903 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 2012 Dodge Durango 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 2012 Dodge Durango. 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, 2012 Dodge Durango (528 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 338 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Caliber. (190 Nm @ 5100 RPM). This means 2012 Dodge Durango will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Caliber.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Caliber | 2012 Dodge Durango | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Caliber | Durango |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 5700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 360 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5150 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 528 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 2328 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 5075 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1925 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1801 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 3043 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 93 L |
