1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2009 Jeep Commander
To start off, 2009 Jeep Commander is newer by 13 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), 2009 Jeep Commander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Jeep Commander (305 HP @ 5650 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Jeep Commander should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Jeep Commander weights approximately 338 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 2009 Jeep Commander 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, 2009 Jeep Commander 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, 2009 Jeep Commander (454 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (262 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 Jeep Commander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan. 2009 Jeep Commander 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. 2009 Jeep Commander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 2009 Jeep Commander | |
| Make | Dodge | Jeep |
| Model | Caravan | Commander |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Minivan | SUV |
| 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 | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5650 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 454 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 2043 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2790 mm |
