1996 Dodge Caravan III LWB Dimensions, Size & Specs

The 1996 Dodge Caravan III LWB has a curb weight ranging between 1669 kg and 1920 kg (approximately 3682 to 4233 pounds). This variation in weight depends on the trim level and options installed. Its maximum permissible weight is 2454 kg (about 5410 pounds), which includes passengers, cargo, and any additional load. This weight capacity ensures the minivan can safely accommodate families along with their luggage and gear, making it practical for everyday use as well as road trips.

The 1996 Dodge Caravan III LWB offers a generous luggage capacity of 575 liters (20.3 cubic feet) with all seats in use, which is quite sizeable for everyday errands and small trips. When the rear seats are folded down, the space expands dramatically to an impressive 4770 liters (168.4 cubic feet). This vast cargo area makes it exceptionally versatile for transporting larger items, furniture, sports equipment, or even for camping gear. The flexibility in storage underlines the Caravan's utility as a family and multi-purpose vehicle.

The 1996 Dodge Caravan III LWB has a ground clearance of 140 mm (approximately 5.5 inches). This moderate ride height provides a balance between ease of entry and exit and sufficient clearance to handle typical urban road obstacles such as speed bumps or uneven road surfaces. However, it is lower than many SUVs, so caution is advised on rough terrain or steep inclines. For everyday city and highway driving, this ground clearance supports a stable ride and helps in maintaining a lower center of gravity for improved handling.

The 1996 Dodge Caravan III LWB comes equipped with wheels in several sizes ranging from 14 to 17 inches, catering to different preferences and trims. The rim sizes offered include 14, 15, 16, and 17 inches. Corresponding tire sizes available are 205/75 R14, 215/70 R15, 215/65 R16, and 215/60 R17, which provide a balance of comfort, handling, and load capacity. These tire options enable drivers to select combinations that suit either a smoother ride or a sportier feel, depending on their needs.

The 1996 Dodge Caravan III LWB, with a length of 5070 mm (199.6 inches or about 16.5 feet), width of 1950 mm (76.8 inches or 6.4 feet), and height of 1740 mm (68.5 inches or 5.7 feet), fits within most standard home garages. The typical garage width is around 2.7 to 3 meters (9 to 10 feet), and depth is about 6 meters (20 feet), so this minivan should comfortably fit. However, parking space tightness could depend on the garage's door width and additional stored items. Owners are advised to measure their specific garage dimensions to ensure a comfortable fit.

Compared to its predecessor, the Dodge Caravan II, the 1996 Caravan III LWB is notably larger, especially in length and overall space. The LWB (Long Wheelbase) model features an extended wheelbase for improved interior room, stretching to 5070 mm (199.6 inches) long compared to the shorter wheelbase version's generally smaller footprint. Width and height have also seen modest increases to improve comfort and passenger capacity. These dimensional enhancements result in more rear legroom, cargo area, and overall versatility, making the 1996 Caravan III LWB a more practical choice for larger families or those needing enhanced storage capacity.

The 1996 Dodge Caravan III LWB was competitive in size within the minivan market of the late 1990s. Its 5070 mm (199.6 inches) length and 575-liter (20.3 cubic feet) luggage capacity (expandable to 4770 liters or 168.4 cubic feet with seats folded) matched or exceeded offerings from rivals like the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna of that era. The Caravan's slightly wider stance at 1950 mm (76.8 inches) contributed to roomy interiors. Its cargo versatility, combined with a variety of engine and trim choices, allowed it to appeal to families needing space and utility without compromising drivability.

The 1996 Dodge Caravan III LWB was designed primarily as a family minivan with seating for 7 passengers typically, arranged in three rows. Thanks to its long wheelbase and substantial dimensions, passengers enjoy comfortable legroom and headroom, especially in the front and middle rows. The rear seats can accommodate adults or children, and the ability to fold or remove seats provides flexibility for cargo. This spacious interior environment, combined with practical features, made the Caravan III LWB very popular among families needing both passenger comfort and cargo versatility.

The 1996 Dodge Caravan III LWB offers a range of rim sizes from 14 to 17 inches, with matching tire sizes 205/75 R14, 215/70 R15, 215/65 R16, and 215/60 R17. When selecting tires and rims, factors such as ride comfort, load capacity, handling, and aesthetics should be considered. Larger rims with lower profile tires, such as 17-inch rims, may enhance cornering and give a sportier appearance but can reduce ride comfort on rough roads. Smaller rims with higher profile tires, like 14 or 15 inches, typically provide a smoother ride and better absorption of road imperfections, essential for family safety and comfort. It’s important also to choose tires rated for the vehicle’s weight to maintain handling performance and safety.