2001 Dodge Caravan vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 11 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 3,301 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Dodge Caravan (173 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 279 kg more than 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Dodge Caravan. (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Dodge Caravan. 2001 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Dodge Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Dodge Caravan | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
Model | Caravan | Golf |
Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3301 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 173 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 285 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1521 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4246 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1782 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1423 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2578 mm |