2006 Dodge Caravan vs. 2011 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2011 Dodge Nitro is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Dodge Nitro (260 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 2006 Dodge Caravan. (150 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 2006 Dodge Caravan.
Because 2011 Dodge Nitro 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 2011 Dodge Nitro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Caravan, 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, 2011 Dodge Nitro (359 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Dodge Caravan. (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Dodge Caravan | 2011 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Caravan | Nitro |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Minivan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2397 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4544 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1857 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1791 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2764 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 74 L |
