1997 Dodge Caravan vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo 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 57 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 705 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. 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 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Caravan | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caravan | Polo |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3800 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 | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2470 mm |
