1997 Dodge Caravan Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
Chrysler is trying to snazz them up, trying to make them less boring appearance-wise, but let's face it, people aren't buying minivans to...
Chrysler is trying to snazz them up, trying to make them less boring appearance-wise, but let's face it, people aren't buying minivans to impress their friends and neighbors. The minivan is a utility vehicle for hauling work, kids, pets, and the kitchen sink. And in this respect, the Dodge Caravan is still the highest-rated minivan among experts and car owners.
The 1997 Dodge Caravan brings back the all-wheel drive option, but only in the Grand Caravans, SE and higher. All other models continue to have front-wheel drive. Anti-lock brakes are available in all models, and low-speed traction control comes with the LE models. Experts give it above average ratings in reliability, safety, and handling, with the 3.8-liter V6 engine obviously offering the smoothest, most powerful ride of the four engine options. All the other engines offer the most power in the engine class however.
Owners say they are reliable, handle like a car, and are quiet and stable. The Caravans are the best selling, most award winning minivan on the market. Typically, with each model revision come features that are innovative, often setting the bar for other minivans.
What owners say
"Overall, drivers generally appreciate the spaciousness and reliability of the 1997 Dodge Caravan, making it a great family vehicle. Many enjoy its performance on highways and decent fuel economy. However, some have experienced issues with the power steering and transmission durability, and the cost of ownership is noted to be high."
i drove a dodge grand caravan in the late 90's in and around fort frances ontario.i liked how it performed on the highways since i lived in the country at the time.it was great in all the seasons.the interior was so spacious that my dogs came with me.the gas was good to fill up and maintenance wasn't that bad either,EXCEPT for the heating controls for the windows,didn't work properly and had to be prepared lots of time.a great family van for dogs as well.
March 24, 2012The cost of ownership on this 1997 dodge caravan is really expensive the gas mileage is ok but this is another car that wasn't built the right way the 3.3 is a really good motor but the transmission on these vans are really weak.
October 12, 2009The engine is a 3.3 , Returns very good mileage/ 18-city,25 highway, Air condition performs well even when temp reach 100 degrees, The air ducts build into the drivers and passager doors,are well designed, Thus providing cool or warm air to the passenger in rear seats, later model carvans do not have this duct system in the front doors, Shame on Chrysler for deleting it. Future Carvans do not have the very efficient 3.3 V-6 engine thus the vehicle gas mileage decreases.
February 23, 2008What owners say
i drove a dodge grand caravan in the late 90's in and around fort frances ontario.i liked how it performed on the highways since i lived in the country at the time.it was great in all the seasons.the interior was so spacious that my dogs came with me.the gas was good to fill up and maintenance wasn't that bad either,EXCEPT for the heating controls for the windows,didn't work properly and had to be prepared lots of time.a great family van for dogs as well.
March 24, 2012The cost of ownership on this 1997 dodge caravan is really expensive the gas mileage is ok but this is another car that wasn't built the right way the 3.3 is a really good motor but the transmission on these vans are really weak.
October 12, 2009The engine is a 3.3 , Returns very good mileage/ 18-city,25 highway, Air condition performs well even when temp reach 100 degrees, The air ducts build into the drivers and passager doors,are well designed, Thus providing cool or warm air to the passenger in rear seats, later model carvans do not have this duct system in the front doors, Shame on Chrysler for deleting it. Future Carvans do not have the very efficient 3.3 V-6 engine thus the vehicle gas mileage decreases.
February 23, 2008It has a lot of room in it, because it can seat 7 people. But it is not the most stylish car you could own. It is decent on gas. It is comfortable and some luxuries to it. I would not reccommend this car if you are trying to attract anyone!
June 29, 2010Trims & specs
Base MSRP $26,385 | Seating 7 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $17,815 | Seating 7 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity 43.6 cu ft |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $20,505 | Seating 7 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity 13.6 cu ft |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $25,795 | Seating 7 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity 13.6 cu ft |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
