2006 Dodge Caravan vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Dodge Caravan is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 3,310 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Dodge Caravan (180 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 745 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. 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 Dodge Caravan (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (103 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Dodge Caravan | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Dodge | Opel |
| Model | Caravan | Astra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3310 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 70 L |
