2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS 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 2,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2009 Dodge Caliber. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2009 Dodge Caliber.
Because 2012 Lexus IS 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 Lexus IS. 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 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Caliber. (170 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Caliber.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Caliber | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Dodge | Lexus |
| Model | Caliber | IS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4633 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.8 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 65 L |
