1997 Dodge Caravan vs. 2012 Dodge Charger
To start off, 2012 Dodge Charger is newer by 15 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Dodge Charger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Dodge Charger (292 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (131 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Charger should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 3 kg more than 2012 Dodge Charger.
Because 2012 Dodge Charger 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 2012 Dodge Charger. 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, 2012 Dodge Charger (352 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2012 Dodge Charger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Caravan. 2012 Dodge Charger 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. 2012 Dodge Charger will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Dodge Caravan | 2012 Dodge Charger | |
Make | Dodge | Dodge |
Model | Caravan | Charger |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1996 cc | 3600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 131 HP | 292 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6350 RPM |
Torque | 174 Nm | 352 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1797 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5077 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1905 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1483 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 3053 mm |