2002 Dodge Caravan vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 2,428 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Dodge Caravan (145 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 590 kg more than 2003 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, 2002 Dodge Caravan (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (156 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. 2003 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2002 Dodge Caravan has manual transmission. 2002 Dodge Caravan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Dodge Caravan | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
Model | Caravan | Golf |
Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2428 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 145 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 226 Nm | 156 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 76.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 86.9 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1160 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |