2002 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 2012 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2012 Nissan Xterra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Dodge Grand Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Dodge Grand Caravan would be higher. At 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2002 Dodge Grand Caravan. (212 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 2002 Dodge Grand Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 51 kg more than 2012 Nissan Xterra.
Because 2012 Nissan Xterra 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 2012 Nissan Xterra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Dodge Grand 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, 2012 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Dodge Grand Caravan. (332 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Dodge Grand Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Dodge Grand Caravan | 2012 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Dodge | Nissan |
| Model | Grand Caravan | Xterra |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3778 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1930 kg | 1879 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4539 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1849 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1902 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 80 L |
