1990 Dodge Caravan vs. 1981 Renault 4
To start off, 1990 Dodge Caravan is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Renault 4 would be higher. At 2,501 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Dodge Caravan (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1981 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 710 kg more than 1981 Renault 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1990 Dodge Caravan (183 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 4. (63 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1990 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Dodge Caravan | 1981 Renault 4 | |
| Make | Dodge | Renault |
| Model | Caravan | 4 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 63 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2410 mm |
