2004 Dodge Caravan vs. 1997 BMW 730
To start off, 2004 Dodge Caravan is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW 730 (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2004 Dodge Caravan. (145 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 2004 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 730 weights approximately 4 kg more than 2004 Dodge Caravan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 BMW 730 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 BMW 730. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Caravan, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1997 BMW 730 (279 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Dodge Caravan. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 BMW 730 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Dodge Caravan. 1997 BMW 730 has automatic transmission and 2004 Dodge Caravan has manual transmission. 2004 Dodge Caravan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 BMW 730 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Caravan | 1997 BMW 730 | |
| Make | Dodge | BMW |
| Model | Caravan | 730 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 279 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1741 kg | 1745 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2940 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 90 L |
