2009 Dodge Ram vs. 1997 Dodge Caravan
To start off, 2009 Dodge Ram 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 6,690 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Ram (350 HP @ 3013 RPM) has 219 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (131 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Ram weights approximately 737 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.
Because 2009 Dodge Ram 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, 2009 Dodge Ram 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 Ram (827 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 653 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Ram | 1997 Dodge Caravan | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Ram | Caravan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6690 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 131 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3013 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 827 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2537 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6300 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2000 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 4080 mm | 2880 mm |
