1998 BMW 318 vs. 1997 Dodge Caravan
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 is newer by 1 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 41 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 510 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 318 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 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Dodge 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, 1998 BMW 318 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 318 | 1997 Dodge Caravan | |
Make | BMW | Dodge |
Model | 318 | Caravan |
Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1665 cc | 1996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 131 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 174 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1800 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1960 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1790 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2880 mm |