1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 12 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 33 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 427 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra. 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 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra. 1996 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 2008 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2008 Opel Astra 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 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
Make | Dodge | Opel |
Model | Caravan | Astra |
Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3301 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 156 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 275 Nm | 175 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1278 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2620 mm |