1981 Dodge Mirada vs. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan
To start off, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Dodge Mirada. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Dodge Mirada would be higher. At 5,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Dodge Mirada is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan (173 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1981 Dodge Mirada. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1981 Dodge Mirada. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 260 kg more than 1981 Dodge Mirada. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Dodge Mirada 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 1981 Dodge Mirada. 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, 1981 Dodge Mirada (343 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Dodge Mirada will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Dodge Mirada | 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Mirada | Grand Caravan |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 3301 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 343 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 5150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 3080 mm |
