1978 BMW 520 vs. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan
To start off, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 520 would be higher. At 3,299 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan (175 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1978 BMW 520. (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 21 kg more than 1978 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 BMW 520 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 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Grand 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, 1978 BMW 520 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan. (278 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan has automatic transmission and 1978 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1978 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 BMW 520 | 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan | |
Make | BMW | Dodge |
Model | 520 | Grand Caravan |
Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1951 cc | 3299 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 278 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 81 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1691 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5150 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 2010 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1760 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3080 mm |
Fuel Consumption | 5 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 8.1 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.1 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 76 L |