1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2013 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 17 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, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (156 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 329 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Golf.
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 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Golf. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Golf. 1996 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 2013 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2013 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 2013 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caravan | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1376 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2578 mm |
