2004 Buick Rainier vs. 1996 Dodge Caravan
To start off, 2004 Buick Rainier is newer by 8 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 4,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Buick Rainier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Buick Rainier (275 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (156 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Buick Rainier should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Buick Rainier weights approximately 310 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 2004 Buick Rainier 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 2004 Buick Rainier. 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, 2004 Buick Rainier (387 Nm) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (275 Nm). This means 2004 Buick Rainier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Buick Rainier | 1996 Dodge Caravan | |
| Make | Buick | Dodge |
| Model | Rainier | Caravan |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 3301 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 387 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2015 kg | 1705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2880 mm |
