Dodge Caravan S
The revolutionary pioneer that defined the modern American minivan.
- Power
- 104 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 14.0 s
- Top speed
- 100 mph
- Est. value
- $3k–$15k
About the Dodge Caravan S
Introduced in late 1983 for the 1984 model year, the Dodge Caravan revolutionized family transport by creating the modern minivan segment. Built on the front-wheel-drive 'S' platform derived from Chrysler's K-cars, it offered car-like handling and garage-friendly dimensions that traditional full-sized vans lacked. The optional 2.6-litre Mitsubishi-sourced engine provided a necessary boost in torque over the base 2.2-litre unit, though it was exclusively paired with a three-speed automatic. Its success is credited with saving Chrysler from financial ruin and fundamentally shifting the American market away from the traditional station wagon.
Dodge Caravan S specs
The Dodge Caravan S produces 104 bhp (78 kW) and 193 Nm (142 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 14.0 seconds and has a top speed of 100 mph (161 km/h).
| Make | Dodge |
|---|---|
| Model | Caravan |
| Generation | S |
| Trim | 2.6 |
| Years | 1983–1990 |
| Type | Van |
| Body style | Minivan |
| Country | United States |
| Original price | About $9,100 when new |
| Engine | 2.6-litre Mitsubishi G54B inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,555 cc (2.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 104 bhp (78 kW) at 4,800 rpm |
| Torque | 193 Nm (142 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 14.0 s |
| Top speed | 100 mph (161 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,368 kg (3,016 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 76 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Dodge Caravan S worth?
A typical Dodge Caravan S is estimated to be worth $3,000 – $15,000 (about £2,200 – £11,000).
Its original price when new was about $9,100.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Dodge Caravan S rarity in CarSpot
The Dodge Caravan S is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 13 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Dodge Caravan S fun facts
- The 1984 Dodge Caravan and its twin, the Plymouth Voyager, are widely considered the first mass-produced vehicles to feature dedicated, built-in cup holders.
- Chrysler's minivan project was spearheaded by Lee Iacocca and Hal Sperlich, the same duo responsible for the original Ford Mustang.
- The 2.6-litre engine used in the early Caravan was the Mitsubishi 'Astron' G54B, which featured 'Silent Shaft' technology to reduce four-cylinder vibration.