1988 Ford Taurus vs. 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan
To start off, 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Taurus 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 63 more horse power than 1988 Ford Taurus. (220 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 546 kg more than 1988 Ford Taurus. 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 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Taurus. (271 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Taurus | 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan | |
| Make | Ford | Dodge |
| Model | Taurus | Grand Caravan |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2985 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 2046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 5151 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1999 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1725 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 3078 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 76 L |
