1997 BMW M3 vs. 1996 Dodge Caravan
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 1 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, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (156 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 405 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
Because 1997 BMW M3 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 1997 BMW M3. 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, 1996 Dodge Caravan (275 Nm) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 1996 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW M3 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:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 1996 Dodge Caravan | |
| Make | BMW | Dodge |
| Model | M3 | Caravan |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3301 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2880 mm |
