1997 Dodge Caravan vs. 2013 Nissan Z
To start off, 2013 Nissan Z is newer by 16 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Nissan Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Nissan Z (327 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 196 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (131 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Nissan Z should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 227 kg more than 2013 Nissan Z.
Because 2013 Nissan Z 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 2013 Nissan Z. 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, 2013 Nissan Z (366 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2013 Nissan Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Caravan | 2013 Nissan Z | |
| Make | Dodge | Nissan |
| Model | Caravan | Z |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 327 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1573 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4246 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1845 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1326 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2550 mm |
