1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2008 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2008 Dodge Dakota is newer by 12 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 4,701 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Dakota (303 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 14 kg more than 2008 Dodge Dakota.
Because 2008 Dodge Dakota 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, 2008 Dodge Dakota 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, 2008 Dodge Dakota (446 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (262 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan. 2008 Dodge Dakota 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. 2008 Dodge Dakota will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 2008 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Caravan | Dakota |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 4701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 303 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 446 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1691 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 3340 mm |
