2004 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 1998 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Meriva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Meriva would be higher. At 3,786 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan (215 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1998 Opel Meriva. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 528 kg more than 1998 Opel Meriva. 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 Grand Caravan (332 Nm) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Meriva. (185 Nm). This means 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan | 1998 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Dodge | Opel |
| Model | Grand Caravan | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3786 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1914 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 52 L |
