1997 Chrysler Neon vs. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan
To start off, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chrysler Neon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chrysler Neon would be higher. At 3,778 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1997 Chrysler Neon. (131 HP @ 5850 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1997 Chrysler Neon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 251 kg more than 1997 Chrysler Neon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan (312 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chrysler Neon. (174 Nm @ 4950 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chrysler Neon. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan has automatic transmission and 1997 Chrysler Neon has manual transmission. 1997 Chrysler Neon will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chrysler Neon | 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan | |
| Make | Chrysler | Dodge |
| Model | Neon | Grand Caravan |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 3778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5850 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 312 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1109 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 5150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3080 mm |
