1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2004 Mercury Mountaineer
To start off, 2004 Mercury Mountaineer 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 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercury Mountaineer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercury Mountaineer (210 HP) has 96 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (114 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercury Mountaineer should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercury Mountaineer weights approximately 370 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.
Because 2004 Mercury Mountaineer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Dodge Caravan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercury Mountaineer will offer significantly more control. 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 Mercury Mountaineer (344 Nm) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (262 Nm). This means 2004 Mercury Mountaineer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 2004 Mercury Mountaineer | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercury |
| Model | Caravan | Mountaineer |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Minivan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 4013 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 210 HP |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 344 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 2075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2900 mm |
