2001 Dodge Caravan vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
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 W12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen W12 would be higher. At 5,584 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (420 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 281 more horse power than 2001 Dodge Caravan. (139 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2001 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 698 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen W12.
Because 1997 Volkswagen W12 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 1997 Volkswagen W12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (530 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Dodge Caravan. (313 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Dodge Caravan | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
Model | Caravan | W12 |
Year Released | 2001 | 1997 |
Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 2499 cc | 5584 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | W |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 420 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 313 Nm | 530 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1850 kg | 1152 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1930 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1010 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2540 mm |