2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1996 Dodge Caravan
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 7 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 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (148 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 200 kg more than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (229 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1996 Dodge Caravan has manual transmission. 1996 Dodge Caravan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1996 Dodge Caravan | |
Make | Chrysler | Dodge |
Model | PT Cruiser | Caravan |
Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2399 cc | 2429 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 215 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 339 Nm | 229 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1705 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1960 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1790 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2880 mm |