2010 Dodge Caliber vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2010 Dodge Caliber is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Dodge Caliber (158 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2010 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 149 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2010 Dodge Caliber (191 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (156 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2010 Dodge Caliber has manual transmission. 2010 Dodge Caliber will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2010 Dodge Caliber | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caliber | Golf |
| Year Released | 2010 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1334 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4415 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1748 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1534 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2634 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |
