2003 Dodge Caravan vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 9 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 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Caravan. (146 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 215 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima.
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, 2012 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Caravan. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Caravan. 2012 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2003 Dodge Caravan has manual transmission. 2003 Dodge Caravan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Dodge Caravan | 2012 Kia Optima | |
Make | Dodge | Kia |
Model | Caravan | Optima |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 146 HP | 274 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 226 Nm | 364 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1535 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4844 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1831 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1455 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2797 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 70 L |