2004 Dodge Caravan vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 3,309 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Dodge Caravan (180 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 457 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2004 Dodge Caravan (285 Nm) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm). This means 2004 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Caravan | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caravan | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3309 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1741 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |
