1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2011 BMW 530
To start off, 2011 BMW 530 is newer by 15 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, 2011 BMW 530 (256 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (156 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan.
Because 2011 BMW 530 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2011 BMW 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2011 BMW 530 (540 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 265 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (275 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 2011 BMW 530 | |
| Make | Dodge | BMW |
| Model | Caravan | 530 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4907 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2968 mm |
