1992 Dodge Caravan vs. 1981 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight
To start off, 1992 Dodge Caravan is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight (108 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1992 Dodge Caravan. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight should accelerate faster than 1992 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight weights approximately 220 kg more than 1992 Dodge Caravan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight 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 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight. 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, 1981 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Dodge Caravan. (183 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1981 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Dodge Caravan | 1981 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight | |
| Make | Dodge | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Caravan | Eighty-Eight |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 5550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2960 mm |
