1999 Dodge Caravan vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1999 Dodge Caravan. (131 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1999 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 140 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Dodge Caravan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Dodge Caravan. 2008 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1999 Dodge Caravan has manual transmission. 1999 Dodge Caravan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Dodge Caravan | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caravan | Passat |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2720 mm |
