1997 Dodge Caravan vs. 2008 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 11 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 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (131 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 277 kg more than 1997 Dodge Caravan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Ford Explorer 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 2008 Ford Explorer. 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, 2008 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Caravan. 2008 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1997 Dodge Caravan has manual transmission. 1997 Dodge Caravan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Caravan | 2008 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caravan | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Minivan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 4013 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 344 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 2077 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 3320 mm |
