1997 Dodge Caravan vs. 2009 Dodge Durango
To start off, 2009 Dodge Durango is newer by 12 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 4,701 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Durango is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Durango (303 HP @ 5650 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (131 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Durango should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Durango weights approximately 543 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 2009 Dodge Durango 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, 2009 Dodge Durango 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, 2009 Dodge Durango (447 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 273 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Durango will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Caravan. 2009 Dodge Durango 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. 2009 Dodge Durango will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Dodge Caravan | 2009 Dodge Durango | |
Make | Dodge | Dodge |
Model | Caravan | Durango |
Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
Body Type | Minivan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1996 cc | 4701 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 131 HP | 303 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5650 RPM |
Torque | 174 Nm | 447 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3950 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 7 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 2343 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5110 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1940 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1890 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 3030 mm |