1997 Dodge Caravan vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 18 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 450 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Dodge Caravan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (172 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Dodge Caravan | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
Model | Caravan | Passat |
Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
Body Type | Minivan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1983 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 131 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 174 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2710 mm |