1997 Dodge Caravan vs. 2007 Volvo S40
To start off, 2007 Volvo S40 is newer by 10 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 2,398 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo S40 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (131 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 367 kg more than 2007 Volvo S40.
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, 2007 Volvo S40 (225 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Caravan. 2007 Volvo S40 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. 2007 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Caravan | 2007 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Dodge | Volvo |
| Model | Caravan | S40 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1433 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2650 mm |
