1998 Dodge Caravan vs. 2009 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 11 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, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Caravan. (131 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 553 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Dodge Caravan | 2009 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
Model | Caravan | Golf |
Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
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 | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 174 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1247 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4220 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2580 mm |