1996 - 2000 Dodge Caravan Pre-Owned

While I got out of minivan life when my needs changed, I've since missed having something so practical in the driveway.

This photo of a 1997 Town & Country, near identical twin to the Dodge Caravan, shows the interior of Chrysler's long wheelbase van along with the upscale leather and woodgrain interior, plus its aluminum wheels. The T & C is usually good value on the used market due to its many luxury features. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler)

Now, when the moment arrives to move something large or carry a bus load of relatives who are visiting from out of town, I'm left calling the rental agency if my attempts at booking a press vehicle don't bare fruit.

Of all the minivans available in 1996, Chrysler's were the most advanced. From these a bevy of competitive products introduced copycat sliding side doors, luxury features such as dual air conditioning, and sport sedan-like handling and braking. The Chrysler vans, nevertheless, held their strong market share leadership, a position that still remains today, albeit eroded somewhat.

Without hesitation, I recommend the 1996 through 2000 Chrysler minivans. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler)

As far as buying used goes, you shouldn't experience much trouble finding a Caravan as millions were sold over the model's five year lifespan. In Canada, it has often been the number one selling vehicle overall. Prices are all over the map, ranging from as low as $3,000 for a '96 to $20,000 for a '00 model. But don't just think newer is going to be more expensive as the 2000 model year low was a mere $5,000 and the 1996 high a lofty $10,500, with prices fluctuating depending on condition and options. Somewhere in the middle is probably your safest bet.

In the end my experience with the Caravan makes it easy to recommend. I couldn't recommend purchasing another pre-owned van higher. The 1996 through 2000 Chrysler minivans were the clear class leaders, and your best bets in their sector.