1998 BMW 317 vs. 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan
To start off, 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 317 would be higher. At 3,310 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan (180 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 529 kg more than 1998 BMW 317. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 317 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 317. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 317 | 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan | |
| Make | BMW | Dodge |
| Model | 317 | Grand Caravan |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 3310 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1884 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3040 mm |
