1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 9 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 4,921 cc (10 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton (309 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (164 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 593 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton.
Because 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Dodge Caravan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton (750 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 443 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (307 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caravan | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3778 cc | 4921 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 309 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 307 Nm | 750 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 3010 mm |
