2009 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta
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 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 3,778 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (174 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta.
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 (312 Nm) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (235 Nm). This means 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta 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 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Grand Caravan | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3778 cc | 2800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5150 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2480 mm |
