1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 1969 Volkswagen 1302
To start off, 1996 Dodge Caravan is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Volkswagen 1302. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Volkswagen 1302 would be higher. At 3,301 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Dodge Caravan (156 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1969 Volkswagen 1302. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1969 Volkswagen 1302. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 955 kg more than 1969 Volkswagen 1302. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 Volkswagen 1302 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 1969 Volkswagen 1302. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Dodge Caravan (275 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Volkswagen 1302. (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Volkswagen 1302. 1996 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 1969 Volkswagen 1302 has manual transmission. 1969 Volkswagen 1302 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Dodge Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 1969 Volkswagen 1302 | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caravan | 1302 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2410 mm |
