1984 Dodge Caravan I Dimensions, Size & Specs

Production
Model Year:1984
Production Years:1984 - 1990 discontinued in 1990
Useful Information

About 1984 Dodge Caravan I

The Dodge Caravan I, produced from 1984 to 1990, marked a revolutionary step in the automotive world as one of the very first minivans designed primarily for family use. Introduced in the 1984 model year, this minivan set new standards in space efficiency, versatility, and practicality within the passenger vehicle segment. As a front-engine, front-wheel-drive vehicle, the Caravan I offered improved interior space and car-like handling compared to traditional vans and station wagons of its time.

Measuring approximately 4,530 mm (178.3 inches) in length, the first-generation Dodge Caravan was compact enough for urban driving yet spacious enough to accommodate families comfortably. The width generally stood around 1,770 mm (69.7 inches), and the height was about 1,680 mm (66.1 inches), providing an ideal balance between interior volume and maneuverability. This dimension layout contributed to generous passenger and cargo space, popularizing the minivan format.

With seating configurations accommodating seven passengers, the Caravan I featured flexible interior arrangements including removable and foldable seats that allowed for customizable cargo space. The practical sliding side door was a distinctive feature facilitating easy access in tight parking spaces, a design detail that became synonymous with minivans.

The Dodge Caravan I was powered by a range of four-cylinder and V6 engines over its production period, catering to different preferences for power and fuel efficiency. Its construction emphasized a car-like ride quality with enhanced safety and reliability compared to larger full-size vans.

Today, the Dodge Caravan I remains a significant model in automotive history, having pioneered the minivan genre and influenced countless future designs. Its combination of thoughtful dimensions, flexible seating, and family-friendly features makes it an iconic vehicle for those studying automotive size and design evolution.

Exceptional Features

1984 Dodge Caravan I Highlights

Discover the standout features that make the 1984 Dodge Caravan I a leader in its class

Versatile Minivan Design

The 1984 Dodge Caravan I introduced a practical and versatile minivan body style, designed to provide ample interior space for passengers and cargo, making it ideal for families.

Front-Wheel Drive Layout

This model featured a front-wheel drive system, which improved handling and traction, especially in adverse weather conditions, while also maximizing interior space.

Multiple Engine Options

The 1984 Dodge Caravan I came with a range of engine choices including four-cylinder and V6 options, allowing buyers to balance fuel efficiency and power according to their needs.

Innovative Seating Arrangement

It offered flexible seating configurations with removable and fold-flat second and third-row seats, allowing users to easily adjust the interior for passengers or cargo.

Safety Features for Its Time

Equipped with standard safety features such as seat belts and optional anti-lock braking systems, the Caravan prioritized occupant protection in a family-oriented vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

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The Dodge Caravan I, produced from 1984 to 1990, has an overall length of approximately 4,514 mm (177.6 inches), a width of around 1,745 mm (68.7 inches), and a height near 1,695 mm (66.7 inches). These dimensions reflect the compact yet spacious design typical for minivans of its era, offering a practical balance between interior passenger space and maneuverability in urban and suburban settings.

The Dodge Caravan I features a wheelbase of about 2,757 mm (108.5 inches). A longer wheelbase contributes to enhanced driving stability, especially on highways, while also allowing for a more spacious and comfortable interior layout. In the case of the Caravan I, the wheelbase was a key factor in maximizing passenger and cargo room within an overall compact footprint.

The curb weight of the Dodge Caravan I generally ranges between 1,470 kg to 1,670 kg (3,241 to 3,682 lbs), depending on the trim and equipment level. This moderate weight for a minivan influences fuel consumption and performance; the vehicle offers reasonable fuel efficiency for its class while maintaining functional power and handling characteristics suitable for family and utility use.

The Dodge Caravan I comfortably seats seven passengers across three rows, typical for minivans designed for family use. The versatile seating arrangement provides considerable passenger volume, allowing either for full seating or flexible cargo configurations when the rear seats are folded or removed. This configuration was pioneering in the minivan segment at the time of its release.

Yes, the Dodge Caravan I fits into most standard residential garages. Its length of approximately 4.5 meters (177.6 inches) and width just under 1.75 meters (68.7 inches) means it comfortably accommodates garage spaces designed for mid-sized vehicles. Owners should verify garage door width and height clearances, especially if storage racks or other obstructions are present, but generally, the Caravan I's dimensions are garage-friendly.

The Dodge Caravan I offered competitive cargo capacity for its segment and time, with rear seats that could be folded to reveal a flat cargo floor. Cargo volume behind the second row was ample for groceries, luggage, or recreational gear, and expanding when rear rows were folded or removed. This flexible cargo space helped set industry standards for versatile family and utility transport in the minivan class.

The 1984 Dodge Caravan I was the original model and thus had no direct predecessor within the Caravan nameplate or exact vehicle segment from Dodge. It essentially defined the minivan class for Dodge. As such, it introduced the compact minivan concept with practical dimensions and innovative interior flexibility, setting the stage for future generations and competitors to follow.

Compared to other minivans available between 1984 and 1990, such as the Toyota Van or Honda Shuttle, the Dodge Caravan I was relatively compact but offered a more spacious and versatile interior layout. Its exterior dimensions balanced urban drivability with ample passenger and cargo room, making it a popular choice among families looking for a practical, mid-size minivan solution.

The Dodge Caravan I was revolutionary in popularizing the minivan segment with features like a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout, sliding side doors for easy passenger access, and a configurable interior to maximize space and comfort. Its design focused on practicality and family convenience, setting a benchmark for subsequent minivan generations across the industry.

The Dodge Caravan I’s body width measures approximately 1,745 mm (68.7 inches) without mirrors. With mirrors extended, the overall width typically increases by about 200 mm to 300 mm (8 to 12 inches), depending on mirror design. It's important for owners to consider this when parking in tight spaces or navigating narrow roads, although the Caravan I remains quite manageable in typical urban conditions.

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