2009 Chevrolet Express vs. 1998 Dodge Caravan
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Express is newer by 11 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 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Express (279 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Caravan. (131 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 672 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Express.
Because 2009 Chevrolet Express is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Chevrolet Express. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Caravan, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2009 Chevrolet Express (399 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Dodge Caravan. 2009 Chevrolet Express 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. 2009 Chevrolet Express will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Chevrolet Express | 1998 Dodge Caravan | |
Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
Model | Express | Caravan |
Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
Body Type | Van | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4800 cc | 1994 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 279 HP | 131 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 399 Nm | 174 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1128 kg | 1800 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5700 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1960 mm |
Vehicle Height | 2080 mm | 1790 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2880 mm |