I agree. Can't believe they sell the base caravans (oddly enough they are badged "SE") with 2.4L 4 cyl Looks like the 3.3L is the best bang for the buck from what I have seen.

That'* what I've heard too... back in the early to mid 90'* some of those vans were throwing trannys every 30,000 miles.

Thanks for all of the comments. Keep 'em coming!

I don't have a whole lot to add..

I used to own a 1990 Caravan with the 3.0. It was a strong runner. When I sold it in 02 it had about 180,000 on the clock. The only problem I had with it was the fuel pressure regulator.

I also used to own a 1993 Safari. That was a good van too. You are right, the foot well for the driver is very cramped. And, yes, it did drive like a truck. You can't beat the 4.3 though!! The only complaint I had about it was the puff of blue smoke on cold start up. The valve guides were worn. It started at about 50,000 miles all the way until I sold it at 140,000 in 00.

My parent have owned three during their time all not bad car. I would good 3.8l that is their best motor actual from what I here that motor is made be their parent merecedes. My parent 05 has one nice motor good pick up. I don't like the other motors they have in them 3.3l just doesn't seem to have enugh pick up.

I forgot to mention that my wife'* sister has one (an '04?) that they bought new. With 30+k miles on it, it hasn't had any trouble. I bet they've even changed the oil at LEAST twice.

I recently bought an 01 T&C. Pretty nice LXi model. It was the quickest of the americans with the 3.8. Optioned up with power sliding doors and hatch. I read a LOT of reviews and drove plenty of vans before deciding on the Chrysler. Pretty much for the same reasons you listed. I feel it is the best of the american vans and the japs are way over priced.

After reading the reviews on Edmunds I knew an after market warranty was a must. We haven't even owned the van more than 5 months and the warranty has already nearly paid for itself. Swaybar links, power window, power sliding door and vacuum line replacement. That visit to the dealer cost the warranty company $1600. We had the heated seats repaired also, but that was a recall.

Overall we love the van, but no way I would own one without a warranty.

Almost forgot, I am also a member here:
http://www.chryslerminivan.net/

Sheesh... does EVERY vehicle have a club?

I would recommend a Astro, I love those vans. My mom had one and it was practically bulletproof. Just need basic oil changes and tuneups. We had a Explorer conversion, and we drove the hell out of it. We went to Canada at high speeds in that van and to Myrtle Beach, Florida, etc.

I would not hesistate to get a Astro if I wanted. But my car is runnning perfectly so no need to replace it. I would like to have a AWD version, now combine that bulletproof reliablity with the superior traction of AWD. Now, that'* nice.

I would customize mine.