2004 Dodge Dakota vs. 1996 Dodge Caravan
To start off, 2004 Dodge Dakota 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 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Dodge Dakota (209 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (148 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 251 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 Dodge Dakota 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 Dodge Dakota. 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 Dodge Dakota (319 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (229 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2004 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Dakota | 1996 Dodge Caravan | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Dakota | Caravan |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 2429 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 209 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 229 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1956 kg | 1705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2880 mm |
