2006 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Dodge Caravan
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 3,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Dodge Caravan (164 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 545 kg more than 2006 Audi A3. 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, 2006 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (307 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan. 1996 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Dodge Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1996 Dodge Caravan | |
| Make | Audi | Dodge |
| Model | A3 | Caravan |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 3778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 307 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2880 mm |
