1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 1972 Ford 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 Torino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Torino would be higher. At 6,555 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Ford Torino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Ford Torino (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Ford Torino should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Torino weights approximately 287 kg more than 1996 Dodge Caravan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Ford 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 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 Torino (403 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (262 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1972 Ford Torino will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan. 1972 Ford Torino has automatic transmission and 1996 Dodge Caravan has manual transmission. 1996 Dodge Caravan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Ford Torino will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 1972 Ford Torino | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caravan | Torino |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 6555 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 403 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1992 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 3000 mm |
