1981 Dodge Mirada vs. 2010 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 29 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, 2010 Volkswagen Routan (251 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1981 Dodge Mirada. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1981 Dodge Mirada. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 396 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, 2010 Volkswagen Routan, 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, 2010 Volkswagen Routan (351 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Dodge Mirada. (343 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Dodge Mirada.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Dodge Mirada | 2010 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mirada | Routan |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 251 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 343 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 2096 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1953 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 3078 mm |
