1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 7 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, 2003 Opel Astra (174 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (164 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 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 515 kg more than 2003 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 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (251 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra. 1996 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 2003 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2003 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 | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Dodge | Opel |
| Model | Caravan | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| 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 | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 307 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2740 mm |
