1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 1972 Ford Gran Torino
To start off, 1996 Dodge Caravan is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Gran Torino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Gran Torino would be higher. At 4,095 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Ford Gran Torino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Dodge Caravan (148 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. (95 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 24 kg more than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Ford Gran Torino 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 1972 Ford Gran Torino. 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, 1972 Ford Gran Torino (245 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (229 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1972 Ford Gran Torino will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 1972 Ford Gran Torino | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caravan | Gran Torino |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 4095 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1681 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 3000 mm |
