1997 Dodge Caravan vs. 2008 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2008 Skoda Octavia is newer by 11 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 26 more horse power than 2008 Skoda Octavia. (105 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 2008 Skoda Octavia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 405 kg more than 2008 Skoda Octavia. 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, 2008 Skoda Octavia (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2008 Skoda Octavia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Caravan. 2008 Skoda Octavia 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. 2008 Skoda Octavia will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Caravan | 2008 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Dodge | Skoda |
| Model | Caravan | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2580 mm |
