2002 BMW 318 vs. 1996 Dodge Caravan
To start off, 2002 BMW 318 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Dodge Caravan (148 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2002 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 315 kg more than 2002 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 BMW 318 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 2002 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Dodge Caravan (229 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW 318. (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW 318 | 1996 Dodge Caravan | |
| Make | BMW | Dodge |
| Model | 318 | Caravan |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2429 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 229 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2880 mm |
