1998 Dodge Caravan vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf 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 18 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 695 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. 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 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Dodge Caravan | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caravan | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4148 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2512 mm |
