2003 Dodge Caravan vs. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2003 Dodge Caravan is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 2,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Caravan. (146 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Caravan.
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, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta (235 Nm) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Caravan. (226 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Caravan | 1996 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caravan | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2480 mm |
