1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 1980 Dodge Omni
To start off, 1996 Dodge Caravan is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Dodge Omni. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Dodge Omni 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 91 more horse power than 1980 Dodge Omni. (65 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1980 Dodge Omni. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 705 kg more than 1980 Dodge Omni. 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 (275 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Dodge Omni. (115 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Dodge Omni. 1996 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 1980 Dodge Omni has manual transmission. 1980 Dodge Omni 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 | 1980 Dodge Omni | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Caravan | Omni |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 65 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2530 mm |
