2003 Dodge Caravan vs. 1989 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2003 Dodge Caravan is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 2,513 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Dodge Caravan (146 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1989 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 350 kg more than 1989 Ford Taurus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Dodge Caravan (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Taurus. (176 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2003 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Caravan | 1989 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caravan | Taurus |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2700 mm |
