1997 Dodge Caravan vs. 2003 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Dodge Caravan 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 30 more horse power than 2003 Opel Meriva. (101 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 420 kg more than 2003 Opel Meriva. 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 @ 4900 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Meriva. (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Dodge Caravan | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
Make | Dodge | Opel |
Model | Caravan | Meriva |
Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 131 HP | 101 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 174 Nm | 150 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4050 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1630 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2740 mm |