1992 Dodge Caravan vs. 1997 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Microbus is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 2,551 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Microbus (134 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1992 Dodge Caravan. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Microbus should accelerate faster than 1992 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 255 kg more than 1992 Dodge Caravan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Volkswagen Microbus 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 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Dodge Caravan, 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, 1997 Volkswagen Microbus (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Dodge Caravan. (183 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Microbus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Dodge Caravan | 1997 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caravan | Microbus |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 2551 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2470 mm |
