1998 BMW 316 vs. 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan
To start off, 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 316 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan (283 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (106 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 796 kg more than 1998 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 316 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316. 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 316 | 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan | |
| Make | BMW | Dodge |
| Model | 316 | Grand Caravan |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 2046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 5151 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1999 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1725 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3078 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 76 L |
