2006 Dodge Caravan vs. 2008 Ford S-Max
To start off, 2008 Ford S-Max is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 3,309 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Dodge Caravan (180 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2008 Ford S-Max. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford S-Max. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 7 kg more than 2008 Ford S-Max. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Dodge Caravan is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Ford S-Max. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Caravan 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, 2008 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Dodge Caravan. (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Dodge Caravan | 2008 Ford S-Max | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caravan | S-Max |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3309 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1743 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 15.7 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 70 L |
