2001 Dodge Caravan vs. 2005 Lexus IS

To start off, 2005 Lexus IS is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 3,301 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Dodge Caravan (173 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2005 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 2005 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 294 kg more than 2005 Lexus IS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 Lexus IS 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 2005 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Dodge Caravan (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2001 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Lexus IS. 2001 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 2005 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2005 Lexus IS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Dodge Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2001 Dodge Caravan 2005 Lexus IS
Make Dodge Lexus
Model Caravan IS
Year Released 2001 2005
Body Type Minivan Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3301 cc 1988 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 173 HP 153 HP
Engine RPM 5100 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 285 Nm 195 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1800 kg 1506 kg
Vehicle Length 4810 mm 4510 mm
Vehicle Width 2010 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1760 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2680 mm