1992 Dodge Caravan vs. 1980 Ford Escort
To start off, 1992 Dodge Caravan is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,499 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Dodge Caravan (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 495 kg more than 1980 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Ford Escort 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 1980 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 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, 1992 Dodge Caravan (183 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1992 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Dodge Caravan | 1980 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caravan | Escort |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 939 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 45 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 60 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2410 mm |
