2006 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan would be higher. At 3,310 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan (180 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2012 Kia Optima. (166 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 301 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Grand Caravan (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (209 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Dodge | Kia |
| Model | Grand Caravan | Optima |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3310 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1884 kg | 1583 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.1 L/100km | 5.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 65 L |
