2011 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan 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 160 more horse power than 2012 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 2012 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 648 kg more than 2012 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, 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Opel Astra. (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Dodge | Opel |
| Model | Grand Caravan | Astra |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 283 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 352 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Flex Fuel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2046 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5151 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1999 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1725 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3078 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 52 L |
