1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2012 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2012 Cadillac CTS is newer by 16 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Cadillac CTS (270 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 43 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 2012 Cadillac CTS is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 Cadillac CTS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2012 Cadillac CTS (302 Nm @ 5700 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (262 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 2012 Cadillac CTS | |
| Make | Dodge | Cadillac |
| Model | Caravan | CTS |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 302 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1748 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4859 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1842 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2880 mm |
