1997 Dodge Caravan vs. 2004 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2004 Dodge Dakota is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 3,685 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Dodge Dakota (210 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (131 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 53 kg more than 2004 Dodge Dakota.
Because 2004 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Dodge Caravan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Dakota 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. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Dodge Dakota (319 Nm) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm). This means 2004 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Caravan | 2004 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Caravan | Dakota |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 3685 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 3 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1747 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2850 mm |
