2003 Dodge Caravan vs. 2011 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Caravan. (146 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 557 kg more than 2003 Dodge Caravan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Volkswagen T5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Dodge Caravan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen T5 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Caravan. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Caravan | 2011 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caravan | T5 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 80 L |
