1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 16 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (120 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta 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 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.
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 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Dodge Caravan | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
Model | Caravan | Jetta |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 262 Nm | 200 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4644 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1778 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1482 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2651 mm |