2006 Dodge Caravan vs. 1998 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2006 Dodge Caravan is newer by 8 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 3,309 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Dodge Caravan (180 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1998 Opel Meriva. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 357 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.
Because 2006 Dodge Caravan is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Opel Meriva. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Caravan will offer significantly more control. 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 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Meriva. (185 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2006 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Dodge Caravan | 1998 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Dodge | Opel |
| Model | Caravan | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3309 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 15.7 L/100km | 5.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 53 L |
