1999 BMW 323 vs. 1997 Dodge Caravan
To start off, 1999 BMW 323 is newer by 2 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 323 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (131 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 343 kg more than 1999 BMW 323.
Because 1999 BMW 323 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 323. 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, 1999 BMW 323 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Caravan. 1999 BMW 323 has automatic transmission and 1997 Dodge Caravan has manual transmission. 1997 Dodge Caravan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 BMW 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1999 BMW 323 | 1997 Dodge Caravan | |
Make | BMW | Dodge |
Model | 323 | Caravan |
Year Released | 1999 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 131 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 174 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1457 kg | 1800 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1960 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1790 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2880 mm |