1997 Dodge Caravan vs. 2009 Kia Sportage
To start off, 2009 Kia Sportage 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 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 22 more horse power than 2009 Kia Sportage. (109 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Sportage. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 285 kg more than 2009 Kia Sportage. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Kia Sportage 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 Kia Sportage 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 Kia Sportage (251 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Sportage will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Caravan. 2009 Kia Sportage 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 Kia Sportage will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Dodge Caravan | 2009 Kia Sportage | |
Make | Dodge | Kia |
Model | Caravan | Sportage |
Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
Body Type | Minivan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1991 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 131 HP | 109 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 174 Nm | 251 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1515 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4360 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2640 mm |