1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2003 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva 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 3,301 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Dodge Caravan (156 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2003 Opel Meriva. (101 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 325 kg more than 2003 Opel Meriva. 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, 1996 Dodge Caravan (275 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Meriva. (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Meriva. 1996 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 2003 Opel Meriva has manual transmission. 2003 Opel Meriva 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 Meriva | |
| Make | Dodge | Opel |
| Model | Caravan | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2740 mm |
