1991 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 1991 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Dodge Grand Caravan (142 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 583 kg more than 1978 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda 626 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 1978 Mazda 626. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1991 Dodge Grand Caravan (235 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1991 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Dodge Grand Caravan | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Grand Caravan | 626 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2972 cc | 1768 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1578 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2520 mm |
