1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 1997 Ford Ka
To start off, 1997 Ford Ka is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 3,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Dodge Caravan (164 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 1045 kg more than 1997 Ford Ka. 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 (307 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ka. 1996 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 1997 Ford Ka 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 | 1997 Ford Ka | |
Make | Dodge | Ford |
Model | Caravan | Ka |
Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3778 cc | 1299 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 164 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 307 Nm | 105 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 880 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2460 mm |