1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2008 Toyota Prius
To start off, 2008 Toyota Prius 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 2,497 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Dodge Caravan (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2008 Toyota Prius. (76 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 2008 Toyota Prius. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 403 kg more than 2008 Toyota Prius. 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 (262 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Toyota Prius. (115 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Toyota Prius. 2008 Toyota Prius 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 Toyota Prius will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 2008 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | Dodge | Toyota |
| Model | Caravan | Prius |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1302 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2710 mm |
