2003 Dodge Caravan vs. 1989 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2003 Dodge Caravan is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Dodge Caravan (146 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 910 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 2003 Dodge Caravan (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (76 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Caravan | 1989 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caravan | Polo |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1270 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 76 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 42 L |
