2009 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 1997 Dodge Caravan
To start off, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 12 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 3,301 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan (173 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (131 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 160 kg more than 1997 Dodge Caravan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Dodge Grand Caravan (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Caravan. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan 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. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan | 1997 Dodge Caravan | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Grand Caravan | Caravan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 131 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1960 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5150 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2880 mm |
