1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 8 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 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 148 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 425 kg more than 2004 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, 2004 Opel Astra (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (229 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Dodge | Opel |
| Model | Caravan | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2620 mm |
