1997 Dodge Caravan vs. 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1997 Dodge Caravan is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Dodge Caravan (131 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 661 kg more than 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1997 Dodge Caravan (174 Nm) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 1997 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Caravan | 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caravan | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1139 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2520 mm |
