1998 Dodge Caravan vs. 1986 Ford Escort
To start off, 1998 Dodge Caravan is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Caravan (131 HP) has 56 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 905 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1998 Dodge Caravan (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Dodge Caravan | 1986 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caravan | Escort |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2500 mm |
