2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1996 Dodge Caravan
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 10 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 3,301 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Dodge Caravan (156 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 147 kg more than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 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, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (275 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan. 1996 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Dodge Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1996 Dodge Caravan | |
| Make | Chrysler | Dodge |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Caravan |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 3301 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1558 kg | 1705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2880 mm |
