1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2005 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2005 Nissan 350Z is newer by 9 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, 2005 Nissan 350Z (276 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (164 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 209 kg more than 2005 Nissan 350Z.
Because 2005 Nissan 350Z is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2005 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (307 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2005 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan. 1996 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 2005 Nissan 350Z has manual transmission. 2005 Nissan 350Z 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 | 2005 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Dodge | Nissan |
| Model | Caravan | 350Z |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3778 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 307 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1716 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2540 mm |
