1997 Dodge Caravan vs. 2004 BMW 320
To start off, 2004 BMW 320 is newer by 7 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, 2004 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (131 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 120 kg more than 2004 BMW 320.
Because 2004 BMW 320 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 2004 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2004 BMW 320 (350 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Caravan. 2004 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1997 Dodge Caravan has manual transmission. 1997 Dodge Caravan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Dodge Caravan | 2004 BMW 320 | |
Make | Dodge | BMW |
Model | Caravan | 320 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1993 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 131 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 174 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1680 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2730 mm |