1978 Austin Marina vs. 1991 Dodge Caravan
To start off, 1991 Dodge Caravan is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Austin Marina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Austin Marina would be higher. At 2,501 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Dodge Caravan (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1978 Austin Marina. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1978 Austin Marina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 523 kg more than 1978 Austin Marina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Austin Marina 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 1978 Austin Marina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1991 Dodge Caravan (183 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Austin Marina. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1991 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Austin Marina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Austin Marina | 1991 Dodge Caravan | |
| Make | Austin | Dodge |
| Model | Marina | Caravan |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 2501 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 882 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2860 mm |
