1990 Dodge Caravan vs. 2008 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1990 Dodge Caravan. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1990 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 672 kg more than 1990 Dodge Caravan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Ford Explorer is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Dodge Caravan, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2008 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Dodge Caravan. (183 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Dodge Caravan | 2008 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caravan | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Minivan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 4013 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 344 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 2077 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 5350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 3320 mm |
