1997 Chevrolet Express vs. 2004 Dodge Caravan
To start off, 2004 Dodge Caravan is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Express. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Express would be higher. At 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Express (197 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2004 Dodge Caravan. (145 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 2004 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 589 kg more than 2004 Dodge Caravan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Chevrolet Express 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 1997 Chevrolet Express. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1997 Chevrolet Express (339 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Dodge Caravan. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Dodge Caravan. 1997 Chevrolet Express has automatic transmission and 2004 Dodge Caravan has manual transmission. 2004 Dodge Caravan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Express will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Chevrolet Express | 2004 Dodge Caravan | |
Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
Model | Express | Caravan |
Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
Body Type | Van | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4293 cc | 2429 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 145 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 339 Nm | 226 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 2330 kg | 1741 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 2000 mm |
Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1760 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 3000 mm |