1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2012 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima 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 3,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (164 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 413 kg more than 2012 Nissan Altima.
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, 2012 Nissan Altima (349 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (307 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 2012 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Dodge | Nissan |
| Model | Caravan | Altima |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3778 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 307 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1512 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2675 mm |
