2006 Dodge Caravan vs. 1997 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Dodge Caravan is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,397 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Dodge Caravan (150 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1997 Opel Astra. (73 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Astra.
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 (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2006 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Opel Astra. 2006 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 1997 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1997 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Dodge Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Dodge Caravan | 1997 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Dodge | Opel |
| Model | Caravan | Astra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2397 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 52 L |
