1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 1981 Fiat 126
To start off, 1996 Dodge Caravan is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 126 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 140 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 1340 kg more than 1981 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Fiat 126 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 Fiat 126. 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 265 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 126. 1996 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 1981 Fiat 126 has manual transmission. 1981 Fiat 126 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 | 1981 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Dodge | Fiat |
| Model | Caravan | 126 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3778 cc | 652 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 307 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 1850 mm |
