1997 Dodge Caravan vs. 2007 Lexus IS
To start off, 2007 Lexus IS is newer by 10 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 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (131 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 345 kg more than 2007 Lexus IS.
Because 2007 Lexus IS 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 2007 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2007 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2007 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Caravan | 2007 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Dodge | Lexus |
| Model | Caravan | IS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2680 mm |
