1979 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2006 Dodge Caravan
To start off, 2006 Dodge Caravan is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 3,309 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Dodge Caravan (180 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1979 Chrysler 1609. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1979 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 650 kg more than 1979 Chrysler 1609. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Dodge Caravan is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Chrysler 1609. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Caravan will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Dodge Caravan (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Chrysler 1609 | 2006 Dodge Caravan | |
| Make | Chrysler | Dodge |
| Model | 1609 | Caravan |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1811 cc | 3309 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 3040 mm |
