1998 Dodge Dakota vs. 1996 Dodge Caravan
To start off, 1998 Dodge Dakota is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 3,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Dodge Caravan (164 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 395 kg more than 1998 Dodge Dakota. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Dodge Caravan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Dakota will offer significantly more control. 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, 1996 Dodge Caravan (307 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Dodge Dakota. 1996 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 1998 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 1998 Dodge Dakota will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Dodge Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Dodge Dakota | 1996 Dodge Caravan | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Dakota | Caravan |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 3778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 307 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2880 mm |
