2009 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 1998 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Dodge Dakota. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Dodge Dakota would be higher. At 3,778 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 170 kg more than 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan.
Because 1998 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Dakota 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, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan (312 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Dodge Dakota. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan has automatic transmission and 1998 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 1998 Dodge Dakota 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 | 1998 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Grand Caravan | Dakota |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3778 cc | 2458 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 3 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5150 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2850 mm |
