1979 Austin Marina vs. 1991 Dodge Grand Caravan
To start off, 1991 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Austin Marina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Austin Marina would be higher. At 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Dodge Grand Caravan (142 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1979 Austin Marina. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1979 Austin Marina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 698 kg more than 1979 Austin Marina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Austin Marina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1991 Dodge Grand Caravan (235 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Austin Marina. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1991 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Austin Marina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Austin Marina | 1991 Dodge Grand Caravan | |
| Make | Austin | Dodge |
| Model | Marina | Grand Caravan |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1274 cc | 2972 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.6 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1578 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 3040 mm |
