1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2011 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2011 Dodge Dakota is newer by 15 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Dodge Dakota (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (156 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 255 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 2011 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, 2011 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, 2011 Dodge Dakota (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (275 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2011 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 2011 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Caravan | Dakota |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 3340 mm |
