2001 Dodge Caravan vs. 2011 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2011 Dodge Nitro is newer by 10 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 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Dodge Nitro (260 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2001 Dodge Caravan. (173 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 2001 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 32 kg more than 2001 Dodge Caravan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Dodge Nitro 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 2011 Dodge Nitro. 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, 2011 Dodge Nitro (359 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Dodge Caravan. (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Dodge Caravan | 2011 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Caravan | Nitro |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Minivan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1832 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4544 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1857 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1791 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2764 mm |
