1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2006 Volkswagen Transporter
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Transporter is newer by 10 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, 1996 Dodge Caravan (164 HP) has 60 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Transporter. (104 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Transporter.
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 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Transporter. (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Transporter. 1996 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 2006 Volkswagen Transporter has manual transmission. 2006 Volkswagen Transporter 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 | 2006 Volkswagen Transporter | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caravan | Transporter |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3778 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 104 HP |
| Torque | 307 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 2000 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 3010 mm |
