2006 Dodge Caravan vs. 2012 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2012 Dodge Ram is newer by 6 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 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Dodge Ram (390 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 210 more horse power than 2006 Dodge Caravan. (180 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2006 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Dodge Ram weights approximately 668 kg more than 2006 Dodge Caravan. 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 2012 Dodge Ram. 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, 2012 Dodge Ram (551 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Dodge Caravan. (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Dodge Caravan | 2012 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Caravan | Ram |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3309 cc | 5700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 390 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 551 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 2418 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 5817 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 2017 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1877 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 3569 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 9.8 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.1 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 98 L |
