2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 148 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 85 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3.
Because 2009 Dodge Caliber is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber will offer significantly more control. 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 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Caliber. (170 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Caliber. 2012 Mazda 3 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. 2012 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Caliber | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Caliber | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |
