1998 Dodge Caravan vs. 2003 Lexus GS
To start off, 2003 Lexus GS is newer by 5 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 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus GS (215 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Caravan. (131 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 140 kg more than 2003 Lexus GS.
Because 2003 Lexus GS 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 2003 Lexus GS. 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, 2003 Lexus GS (296 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Dodge Caravan. 2003 Lexus GS has automatic transmission and 1998 Dodge Caravan has manual transmission. 1998 Dodge Caravan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Dodge Caravan | 2003 Lexus GS | |
| Make | Dodge | Lexus |
| Model | Caravan | GS |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 296 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2680 mm |
