1991 Dodge Caravan vs. 1981 Volvo 265
To start off, 1991 Dodge Caravan is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 265 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volvo 265 (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1991 Dodge Caravan. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 265 should accelerate faster than 1991 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 265 weights approximately 17 kg more than 1991 Dodge Caravan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Volvo 265 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 Volvo 265. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Dodge 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 Volvo 265 (230 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Dodge Caravan. (183 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 265 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Dodge Caravan | 1981 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Dodge | Volvo |
| Model | Caravan | 265 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2660 mm |
