2008 BMW 320 vs. 2003 Dodge Caravan

To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Caravan. (146 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 290 kg more than 2008 BMW 320.

Because 2008 BMW 320 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 2008 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Dodge Caravan (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 320. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 320. 2008 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 2003 Dodge Caravan has manual transmission. 2003 Dodge Caravan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 320 2003 Dodge Caravan
Make BMW Dodge
Model 320 Caravan
Year Released 2008 2003
Body Type Station Wagon Minivan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 2429 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 148 HP 146 HP
Engine RPM 6200 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 200 Nm 226 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 87 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 101 mm
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 7 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1460 kg 1750 kg
Vehicle Length 4530 mm 4810 mm
Vehicle Width 1420 mm 2010 mm
Vehicle Height 1820 mm 1760 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2890 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 61 L