2001 Dodge Caravan vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Dodge Caravan is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,301 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Dodge Caravan (173 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 625 kg more than 1997 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, 2001 Dodge Caravan (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2001 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Dodge Caravan | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caravan | Golf |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2470 mm |
