1979 Chrysler 160 vs. 2001 Dodge Caravan
To start off, 2001 Dodge Caravan is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Chrysler 160. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Chrysler 160 would be higher. At 3,301 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Dodge Caravan (173 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1979 Chrysler 160. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1979 Chrysler 160. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 715 kg more than 1979 Chrysler 160. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Chrysler 160. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Dodge Caravan (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Chrysler 160. (132 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2001 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Chrysler 160.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Chrysler 160 | 2001 Dodge Caravan | |
| Make | Chrysler | Dodge |
| Model | 160 | Caravan |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 3301 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2890 mm |
