1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 1988 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 1996 Dodge Caravan is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Hyundai Sonata 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 46 more horse power than 1988 Hyundai Sonata. (110 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1988 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 488 kg more than 1988 Hyundai Sonata. 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 (275 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Hyundai Sonata. (193 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Hyundai Sonata. 1996 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 1988 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 1988 Hyundai Sonata 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 | 1988 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Dodge | Hyundai |
| Model | Caravan | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 2351 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 193 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1217 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2660 mm |
