2006 Dodge Caravan vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 6 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 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 40 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 347 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Dodge Caravan. (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Dodge Caravan | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caravan | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3310 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1842 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4534 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |
