2008 Chevrolet Optra vs. 1996 Dodge Caravan
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Optra is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 3,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Dodge Caravan (164 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2008 Chevrolet Optra. (103 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 2008 Chevrolet Optra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 750 kg more than 2008 Chevrolet Optra. 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, 1996 Dodge Caravan (307 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Optra. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Optra. 1996 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 2008 Chevrolet Optra has manual transmission. 2008 Chevrolet Optra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Dodge Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Optra | 1996 Dodge Caravan | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Optra | Caravan |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 307 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2880 mm |
