1998 Dodge Caravan vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Caravan (131 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 685 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra. 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, 1998 Dodge Caravan (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (173 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Dodge Caravan | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Dodge | Opel |
| Model | Caravan | Astra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2640 mm |
