1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 1985 Ford Escort
To start off, 1996 Dodge Caravan is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,497 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Dodge Caravan (114 HP) has 65 more horse power than 1985 Ford Escort. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 915 kg more than 1985 Ford Escort. 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, 1996 Dodge Caravan (262 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Escort. (84 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 1985 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caravan | Escort |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1117 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2410 mm |
