2004 Dodge Caravan vs. 1997 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2004 Dodge Caravan is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Dodge Dakota. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Dodge Dakota would be higher. At 2,458 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Dodge Caravan (145 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 211 kg more than 1997 Dodge Dakota. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Dodge Caravan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Dakota will offer significantly more control. 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 Dodge Caravan (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2004 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Dakota.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Caravan | 1997 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Caravan | Dakota |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2458 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 3 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1741 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 49 L |
