The first generation Dodge Caravan minivan made its public debut in October 1983, after which it almost immediately entered mass production.
In 1987, the "American" underwent a planned modernization, having received a tweaked appearance and new equipment, at the same time a long-wheelbase version called the Grand Caravan was added to its lineup.
The life cycle of the original car was completed in 1990, when the second "release" of the model was released.
The first generation "Caravan" is a four-door minivan that was available in two versions - standard and long wheelbase. Depending on the version, the length of the machine is 4468-4874 mm, the width is 1765-1829 mm, the height is 1636-1651 mm, the distance between the axles is 2847-3025 mm.
The minimum ground clearance of the American one-volume vehicle does not exceed 130 mm.
Specifications. A wide range of gasoline engines was installed on the "first" Dodge Caravan, both with carburetor and multi-point power systems.
- The car was equipped with atmospheric in-line "fours" with a volume of 2.2-2.6 liters, generating 96-104 "horses" and 161-193 Nm of torque, and a 2.5-liter turbocharged unit with a return of 150 horsepower and 240 Nm.
- V-shaped six-cylinder versions with a volume of 3.0-3.3 liters were also offered for him, developing 136-150 "mares" and 228-240 Nm of peak thrust.
In conjunction with the motors, a 4- or 5-speed "mechanics", a 3- or 4-speed "automatic", as well as a non-alternative drive to the front axle were involved.
At the heart of the "first" Dodge Caravan is a front-wheel drive platform "Chrysler S" with a frame body and independent suspension on double wishbones at the front and a dependent spring-type structure at the rear (in both cases anti-roll bars are mounted).
By default, the car is equipped with a hydraulic power steering, disc brakes on the front and drum devices on the rear wheels (ABS was not offered for it).
The positive features of the first generation "Caravan" are excellent cargo-and-passenger capabilities, comfortable suspension, reliable design, acceptable equipment and good handling.
Disadvantages of the minivan include high fuel consumption, poor light from head optics, expensive maintenance and the need to wait for parts from the USA.
