1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2004 Ford Freestar
To start off, 2004 Ford Freestar is newer by 8 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 4,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Freestar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Freestar (202 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (148 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Freestar should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Freestar weights approximately 234 kg more than 1996 Dodge Caravan. 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, 2004 Ford Freestar (357 Nm) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (229 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Freestar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan. 2004 Ford Freestar has automatic transmission and 1996 Dodge Caravan has manual transmission. 1996 Dodge Caravan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Ford Freestar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 2004 Ford Freestar | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caravan | Freestar |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 4195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 357 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 3070 mm |
