2003 Dodge Caravan vs. 2001 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Dodge Caravan is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Opel Astra 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 4 more horse power than 2001 Opel Astra. (142 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 570 kg more than 2001 Opel Astra. 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 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Caravan | 2001 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Dodge | Opel |
| Model | Caravan | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 94.6 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 | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 52 L |
