1989 Nissan Laurel vs. 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan
To start off, 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan (283 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1989 Nissan Laurel. (202 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1989 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 666 kg more than 1989 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Nissan Laurel 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 1989 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Nissan Laurel. (264 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Nissan Laurel | 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan | |
| Make | Nissan | Dodge |
| Model | Laurel | Grand Caravan |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 2046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 5151 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1999 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1725 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 3078 mm |
