2009 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 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 84 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 630 kg more than 2006 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 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (201 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan has automatic transmission and 2006 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2006 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 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Dodge | Opel |
| Model | Grand Caravan | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 1248 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1960 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5150 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.8 L/100km | 4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 4.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 52 L |
