1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2006 Nissan 350Z

To start off, 2006 Nissan 350Z is newer by 10 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 3,491 cc, 2006 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan 350Z (300 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (156 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 5 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 2006 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 2006 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, 2006 Nissan 350Z (353 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (275 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2006 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 2006 Nissan 350Z has manual transmission. 2006 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 2006 Nissan 350Z
Make Dodge Nissan
Model Caravan 350Z
Year Released 1996 2006
Body Type Minivan Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3301 cc 3491 cc
Horse Power 156 HP 300 HP
Engine RPM 4700 RPM 6400 RPM
Torque 275 Nm 353 Nm
Torque RPM 3250 RPM 4800 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 7 seats 2 seats
Vehicle Weight 1705 kg 1710 kg
Vehicle Length 4740 mm 4320 mm
Vehicle Width 1960 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1790 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2880 mm 2660 mm


 

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