2008 BMW 323 vs. 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan
To start off, 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 323 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan (283 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 2008 BMW 323. (176 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 556 kg more than 2008 BMW 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 323 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 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Grand 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 Grand Caravan (352 Nm) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 323. (230 Nm). This means 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 323. 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 323 | 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan | |
| Make | BMW | Dodge |
| Model | 323 | Grand Caravan |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3600 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 2046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 5151 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1725 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3078 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 76 L |
