1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 1979 Volvo 260
To start off, 1996 Dodge Caravan is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volvo 260 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 10 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 355 kg more than 1979 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Volvo 260 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 1979 Volvo 260. 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 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 260. 1996 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 1979 Volvo 260 has manual transmission. 1979 Volvo 260 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 | 1979 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Dodge | Volvo |
| Model | Caravan | 260 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2660 mm |
