1997 Dodge Caravan vs. 2012 Jeep Wrangler
To start off, 2012 Jeep Wrangler 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 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Jeep Wrangler (285 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (131 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Jeep Wrangler should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Jeep Wrangler weights approximately 60 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 2012 Jeep Wrangler 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, 2012 Jeep Wrangler 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, 2012 Jeep Wrangler (352 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2012 Jeep Wrangler will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Caravan. 2012 Jeep Wrangler 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 Jeep Wrangler will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Dodge Caravan | 2012 Jeep Wrangler | |
Make | Dodge | Jeep |
Model | Caravan | Wrangler |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Minivan | SUV |
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 | 285 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 174 Nm | 352 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1860 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4404 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1877 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1798 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2946 mm |