1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee
To start off, 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee 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 6,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee (470 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 314 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (156 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee weights approximately 631 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 Jeep Grand Cherokee 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, 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee 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, 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee (630 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 355 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (275 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee | |
| Make | Dodge | Jeep |
| Model | Caravan | Grand Cherokee |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 6400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 470 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 2336 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4859 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1958 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1755 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2916 mm |
