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Dodge Redefines Minivan Performance With Concept Caravan R/T

29 October 1998

Dodge Redefines Minivan Performance With Concept Caravan R/T

    AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Oct. 29 -- Driver Dads may compete with
Soccer Moms to get behind the wheel of Dodge Caravan R/T.  Armed with 18-inch
wheels, AutoStick(R) transaxle, a rear spoiler and the most powerful in class
225 horsepower 3.5-Liter aluminum block multi-valve V-6 engine, Caravan R/T is
a concept that explores adding even more performance to the minivan market
segment.
    "The Dodge image is bold, powerful and capable," said Jim Julow, General
Manager - Dodge Division.  "R/T represents the next level of performance and
we use R/T to communicate enhanced performance packages for our vehicles.
Dodge Caravan R/T is a concept that explores how R/T distinction might be
applied to the world's best-selling minivan."
    Dodge is harkening back to its 1960s muscle car heritage, when R/T
branding was reserved for its most sporty, powerful vehicles including Charger
R/T, Challenger R/T and Coronet R/T.  Most recently, R/T nomenclature was
designated to Viper RT/10, Neon R/T and Dakota R/T.
    Painted in Radiant Viper Red, Caravan R/T is instantly recognizable as a
Dodge with its bold, off-set grille.
    Fog lamps and Dodge's distinctive crosshair design are integrated into the
vehicle's lower front fascia.  Two Viper hood scoops, a rear spoiler and a
chrome exhaust tip add to the vehicle's aggressive appearance.  Caravan R/T's
performance package comes complete with 18-inch wheels.
    The influence of Viper continues inside Caravan R/T, with its brushed
aluminum instrument panel and racing accelerator and brake pedals.  The
steering wheel is wrapped in Viper Black leather with Viper Red, Black and
Silver stitching.  Seats are Viper Black leather with a red R/T logo
embroidered into each headrest.  Extra interior storage is provided by an
overhead console and dual center consoles.  The entire floor is made of black
rubber with a raised tread texture which makes the vehicle easy to clean while
serving as a virtual race car shop on wheels.
    "Dodge Caravan R/T is a minivan with an attitude," said Julow.  "It's the
perfect minivan for towing your weekend race car or driving friends and family
to the race track."
    Powertrain:  3.5-Liter Aluminum block multi-valve V6 225 Horsepower
                 (Est.), 250 lb.-ft. Torque AutoStick(R) Transaxle

    Suspension:  Modified for larger wheels and tires with re-tuned springs
                 and dampers for enhanced ride and handling.

    Wheels:  18-inch Goodyear P225/50/18 tires

    Brakes:  Four-Wheel Disc ABS

    Dimensions:
      Wheelbase:         113.3 inches
      Overall Length:    186.3 inches
      Overall Width:     76.8 inches
      Overall Height:    68.5 inches
      Front Track:       63.0 inches
      Rear Track:        64.0 inches