1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2005 Volvo S40
To start off, 2005 Volvo S40 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 2,497 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S40 (138 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 305 kg more than 2005 Volvo S40.
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 (262 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volvo S40. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volvo S40. 2005 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1996 Dodge Caravan has manual transmission. 1996 Dodge Caravan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 2005 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Dodge | Volvo |
| Model | Caravan | S40 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2434 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2670 mm |
