2006 Dodge Caravan vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Dodge Caravan is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 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 @ 5200 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 642 kg more than 2005 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Dodge Caravan is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 Dodge Caravan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 118 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Dodge Caravan | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Dodge | Opel |
| Model | Caravan | Astra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3310 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1842 kg | 1200 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 52 L |
