2001 Dodge Caravan vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (247 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 2001 Dodge Caravan. (139 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2001 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 135 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 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 (330 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Dodge Caravan. (313 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Dodge Caravan. 2008 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 2001 Dodge Caravan has manual transmission. 2001 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:
| 2001 Dodge Caravan | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caravan | Passat |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 313 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1850 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2720 mm |
