1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2011 BMW 550
To start off, 2011 BMW 550 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 244 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (156 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 550 weights approximately 265 kg more than 1996 Dodge Caravan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 550 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 550. 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 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 334 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (275 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan. 1996 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 2011 BMW 550 has manual transmission. 2011 BMW 550 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 | 2011 BMW 550 | |
Make | Dodge | BMW |
Model | Caravan | 550 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3301 cc | 4400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 156 HP | 400 HP |
Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 275 Nm | 609 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1970 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4905 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1859 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1463 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2969 mm |