1998 Dodge Caravan vs. 2002 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Caravan. (131 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 139 kg more than 1998 Dodge Caravan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer 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 2002 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Dodge Caravan | 2002 Ford Explorer | |
Make | Dodge | Ford |
Model | Caravan | Explorer |
Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
Body Type | Minivan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1994 cc | 4009 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 131 HP | 210 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 174 Nm | 335 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1939 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5240 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 3200 mm |