2008 Chevrolet Silverado vs. 1997 Dodge Caravan
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Silverado is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 5,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Silverado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Silverado (315 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (131 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Silverado should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 539 kg more than 2008 Chevrolet Silverado.
Because 2008 Chevrolet Silverado is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Dodge Caravan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Silverado 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 Silverado (458 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 284 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Silverado will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Caravan. 2008 Chevrolet Silverado has automatic transmission and 1997 Dodge Caravan has manual transmission. 1997 Dodge Caravan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chevrolet Silverado will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Silverado | 1997 Dodge Caravan | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Silverado | Caravan |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5300 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 315 HP | 131 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 458 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6330 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1870 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 4010 mm | 2880 mm |
