1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2012 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2012 Toyota Highlander 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 Toyota Highlander (280 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (164 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 180 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 Toyota Highlander is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Dodge Caravan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Toyota Highlander 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 2012 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Dodge | Toyota |
| Model | Caravan | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | SUV |
| 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 | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 2105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4796 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2789 mm |
