1997 Dodge Caravan vs. 1989 Ford Escort
To start off, 1997 Dodge Caravan is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Dodge Caravan (131 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort.
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, 1997 Dodge Caravan (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Caravan | 1989 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caravan | Escort |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2410 mm |
