1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2013 Ford E-Series
To start off, 2013 Ford E-Series is newer by 17 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 5,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Ford E-Series is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Ford E-Series (252 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (164 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Ford E-Series should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Ford E-Series weights approximately 905 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 2013 Ford E-Series 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 2013 Ford E-Series. 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, 2013 Ford E-Series (474 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (307 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2013 Ford E-Series will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 2013 Ford E-Series | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caravan | E-Series |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3778 cc | 5400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 307 Nm | 474 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 4-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 12 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5504 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 2017 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 2111 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 3505 mm |
