1997 Dodge Caravan vs. 2012 Ford Escape
To start off, 2012 Ford Escape 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Ford Escape is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Escape (171 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (131 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Escape should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 334 kg more than 2012 Ford Escape.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Ford Escape (232 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Escape will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Caravan | 2012 Ford Escape | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caravan | Escape |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 232 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1466 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4437 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1806 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1725 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2619 mm |
