1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 1981 Buick Century
To start off, 1996 Dodge Caravan is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Buick Century would be higher. At 3,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Dodge Caravan (164 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1981 Buick Century. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1981 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 495 kg more than 1981 Buick Century. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Buick Century 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 1981 Buick Century. 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 (307 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Buick Century. (217 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Buick Century.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 1981 Buick Century | |
| Make | Dodge | Buick |
| Model | Caravan | Century |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3778 cc | 3213 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 307 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2760 mm |
