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 3,301 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Dodge Caravan (156 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1985 Ford Escort. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Escort.
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 (275 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Escort. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Escort. 1996 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 1985 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1985 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Dodge Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 1985 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caravan | Escort |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2410 mm |
