2009 BMW 318 vs. 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan
To start off, 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW 318 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 142 more horse power than 2009 BMW 318. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 671 kg more than 2009 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 318 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 2009 BMW 318. 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 @ 4400 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 318. (201 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 318. 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW 318 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:
| 2009 BMW 318 | 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan | |
| Make | BMW | Dodge |
| Model | 318 | Grand Caravan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 2046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 5151 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1999 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1725 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3078 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 76 L |
