2003 Dodge Caravan vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
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 Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Passat 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 72 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 540 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. 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 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Dodge Caravan | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
Model | Caravan | Passat |
Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
Body Type | Minivan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 146 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 226 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 86.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
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 | 1210 kg |
Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1620 mm |