1998 Dodge Ram vs. 1996 Dodge Caravan
To start off, 1998 Dodge Ram 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 3,905 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Ram (173 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (156 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 365 kg more than 1996 Dodge Caravan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Dodge Ram 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 1998 Dodge Ram. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1998 Dodge Ram (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (275 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan. 1996 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 1998 Dodge Ram has manual transmission. 1998 Dodge Ram 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 Ram | 1996 Dodge Caravan | |
Make | Dodge | Dodge |
Model | Ram | Caravan |
Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
Body Type | Pickup | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3905 cc | 3301 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 173 HP | 156 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4700 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 275 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 2070 kg | 1705 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1960 mm |
Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1790 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2880 mm |