1998 Dodge Caravan vs. 1985 Ford Taurus
To start off, 1998 Dodge Caravan is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Ford Taurus (139 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Caravan. (131 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 355 kg more than 1985 Ford Taurus.
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, 1985 Ford Taurus (217 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1985 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Dodge Caravan | 1985 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caravan | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2700 mm |
