1997 Dodge Caravan vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 15 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (131 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 230 kg more than 2012 Audi A3.
Because 2012 Audi A3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Dodge Caravan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 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, 2012 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Caravan. 2012 Audi A3 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. 2012 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Dodge Caravan | 2012 Audi A3 | |
Make | Dodge | Audi |
Model | Caravan | A3 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 131 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 174 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | AWD |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1570 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1763 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1422 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2578 mm |