1999 BMW 318 vs. 1996 Dodge Caravan
To start off, 1999 BMW 318 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 3,301 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Dodge Caravan (156 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1999 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 260 kg more than 1999 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Dodge Caravan (275 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 318. 1996 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 1999 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1999 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Dodge Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 318 | 1996 Dodge Caravan | |
| Make | BMW | Dodge |
| Model | 318 | Caravan |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3301 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2880 mm |
