Introduced in November 1983 as the 1984 model year, the Dodge Caravan was based on the Chrysler S platform, an extended derivative of the Chrysler K platform.
The original idea came from Lee Iacocca and Hal Sperlich during their earlier work at Ford where it was rejected. For the 1987 model year, a longer wheelbase was introduced, which was called the Grand Caravan. It was still based on the Chrysler S platform. Safety features consisted of 3-point seat belts for the front passengers and simple lap belts for the rear. Higher grade models were also coming with non-adjustable headrests.