1978 Dodge Aspen vs. 2003 GMC Safari
To start off, 2003 GMC Safari is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Dodge Aspen. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Dodge Aspen would be higher. At 4,292 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 GMC Safari is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 GMC Safari (187 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1978 Dodge Aspen. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 GMC Safari should accelerate faster than 1978 Dodge Aspen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 GMC Safari weights approximately 490 kg more than 1978 Dodge Aspen. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 GMC Safari (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Dodge Aspen. (231 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2003 GMC Safari will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Dodge Aspen.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Dodge Aspen | 2003 GMC Safari | |
| Make | Dodge | GMC |
| Model | Aspen | Safari |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3687 cc | 4292 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2830 mm |
