2008 Chevrolet Equinox vs. 1998 Dodge Caravan
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Equinox is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 3,425 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Equinox is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Equinox (185 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Caravan. (131 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Equinox should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 720 kg more than 2008 Chevrolet Equinox.
Because 2008 Chevrolet Equinox is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Dodge Caravan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Equinox 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 Chevrolet Equinox (285 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Equinox will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Dodge Caravan. 2008 Chevrolet Equinox has automatic transmission and 1998 Dodge Caravan has manual transmission. 1998 Dodge Caravan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chevrolet Equinox will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Equinox | 1998 Dodge Caravan | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Equinox | Caravan |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3425 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 131 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2880 mm |
