1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 1978 Fiat Ritmo
To start off, 1996 Dodge Caravan is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat Ritmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat Ritmo would be higher. At 2,497 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Dodge Caravan (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 845 kg more than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (262 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (81 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat Ritmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 1978 Fiat Ritmo | |
| Make | Dodge | Fiat |
| Model | Caravan | Ritmo |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1049 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2460 mm |
