1974 Chrysler 160 vs. 1996 Dodge Caravan
To start off, 1996 Dodge Caravan is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Chrysler 160. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Chrysler 160 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Dodge Caravan (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1974 Chrysler 160. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1974 Chrysler 160. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 640 kg more than 1974 Chrysler 160. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Chrysler 160 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1974 Chrysler 160. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1996 Dodge Caravan (262 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Chrysler 160. (125 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Chrysler 160.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Chrysler 160 | 1996 Dodge Caravan | |
| Make | Chrysler | Dodge |
| Model | 160 | Caravan |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2880 mm |
