1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2011 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2011 Nissan Sentra 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 2,497 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Sentra (140 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Sentra should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 387 kg more than 2011 Nissan Sentra.
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 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Nissan Sentra. (199 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Nissan Sentra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 2011 Nissan Sentra | |
| Make | Dodge | Nissan |
| Model | Caravan | Sentra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4567 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1511 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2685 mm |
