I will soon be shopping for an '01 Grand to replace my aging '91 GV with 240K on the original motor/trans. The '01s had a bump in HP on both the these motors and with the styling changes as well, this is the year I have decided to get. Can some folks chime in with their impressions on engine choice here. I don't plan to tow and I kind of lke the slightly better MPG the 3.3 gets. I have read in 1 or 2 consumer guide articles that this latest 3.8 is smooth as well as powerfull.
faterotong
11-07-2004, 11:10 PM
I would go with the 3.8L as it's the one we have in our van. It's torquey and it's not much a fuel hog either. Especially with the cruise control on.
McClane
11-08-2004, 08:37 AM
My dad has a 98 Voyager with the 3.3
When we went looking for minivans, we test drove both the 3.3 and 3.8, and I would definitely go with the 3.8. It has more pep (get up and go), and feels alot more stronger than the 3.3.
I would sacrifice the slightly better fuel economy for more power.
gas28man
11-08-2004, 10:48 AM
Actually, some have posted here that they don't get better gas mileage with the 3.3. Perhaps it was an anomaly, and perhaps Chrysler gears them differently, but as far as I know, there is not a significant gas mileage difference between the 3.3 and the 3.8. My 3.8 is up to 270,000 miles and still does not lose a quart of oil between changes. Best engine I've ever had in any vehicle in terms of driveability and durability.
Rick
rallyecharger
11-20-2004, 08:56 AM
I would go with the 3.8L,I get about 18 to 19 mpg in town and 24 to 25 on the hwy.
six pack
11-20-2004, 11:17 PM
I would prefer the 3.8L, but if you don't need it there is nothing wrong with the 3.3L
faterotong
11-21-2004, 09:47 PM
the 3.3 and the 3.8 both use the same trannies. Same gearing. Same 41TE :P
hurstscrambler
11-22-2004, 11:49 AM
I recommend the 3.8 - I had 1993 Grand Voyager with the 3.3. It always downshifted and struggled going up hills. Now I have a 2004 Grand Caravan with a 3.8. It is peppier, doesn't struggle on hills. Gas mileage is about the same, if not slightly better on the 3.8.
Mark360Ram
11-24-2004, 01:38 PM
I have the 3.3, and like everyone else here, I too recommend the 3.8. The 3.3 is adequate, but for the 'fun to drive factor' I'd look for a 3.8
