1996 BMW 523 vs. 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan
To start off, 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 523 would be higher. At 3,786 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan (215 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1996 BMW 523. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 369 kg more than 1996 BMW 523. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 523 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 1996 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Grand 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, 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan (332 Nm) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 523. (245 Nm). This means 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 523 | 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan | |
| Make | BMW | Dodge |
| Model | 523 | Grand Caravan |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 332 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 87 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1914 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3040 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 76 L |
