Hi, Alan. Performance is very important to me and was really the main reason I chose the 2002 Ody over the 2002 Grand Caravan ES 3.8L. which seemed pretty doggy power wise and a bit sloppy handling wise, even with sport suspension, but otherwise a pretty nice van and my second choice.
Here are some published numbers, the accuracy you will have to make a judgment on.
Car & Driver Feb 2000 issue long term test of their 1999 Ody with essentially the same 210 hp drive train as the 2001 at 40,000 miles. Their tested numbers where 0-60mph 9.4 sec, 0-100mph 29.2 sec and 1/4 mile 17.2 sec @ 82 mph. Top speed 117 mph governor limited.
C&D also reviewed the 2002 Ody with 240 bhp in their Oct 01 issue and estimated it's performance as 0-60 in 8.1 sec, 0-100 in 23.5 sec., 1/4 mile in 16.5 sec at 86mph and top speed 118mph, governor limited.
The 99-02 Ody's regardless of year, clearly have the power advantage over all other mini-vans in my opinion.
-Mark