1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2002 Opel Astra
To start off, 2002 Opel Astra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 3,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Opel Astra (187 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (164 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 510 kg more than 2002 Opel Astra.
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, 1996 Dodge Caravan (307 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Opel Astra. (256 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Opel Astra. 1996 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 2002 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2002 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Dodge Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 2002 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Dodge | Opel |
| Model | Caravan | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3778 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 307 Nm | 256 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2620 mm |
