1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2008 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2008 Fiat Panda 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 3,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Dodge Caravan (164 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2008 Fiat Panda. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 2008 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 1065 kg more than 2008 Fiat Panda. 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, 1996 Dodge Caravan (307 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Fiat Panda. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Fiat Panda. 1996 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 2008 Fiat Panda has manual transmission. 2008 Fiat Panda 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 | 2008 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Dodge | Fiat |
| Model | Caravan | Panda |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3778 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 307 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2310 mm |
