1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 1976 Fiat 131
To start off, 1996 Dodge Caravan is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Dodge Caravan (148 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 131. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 665 kg more than 1976 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Fiat 131 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 1976 Fiat 131. 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 (229 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 131. (177 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 1976 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Dodge | Fiat |
| Model | Caravan | 131 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2430 mm |
