2003 Dodge Ram vs. 1996 Dodge Caravan
To start off, 2003 Dodge Ram 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 8,277 cc (10 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Dodge Ram (500 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 386 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Ram weights approximately 569 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 2003 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 2003 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, 2003 Dodge Ram (732 Nm) has 470 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (262 Nm). This means 2003 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Ram | 1996 Dodge Caravan | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Ram | Caravan |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 8277 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 500 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 732 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2274 kg | 1705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2880 mm |
