2009 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 3,301 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan (173 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 810 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. 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, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Dodge | Opel |
| Model | Grand Caravan | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1960 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5150 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2620 mm |
