1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 1981 Holden Statesman
To start off, 1996 Dodge Caravan is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 5,041 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Holden Statesman (169 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (164 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 205 kg more than 1981 Holden Statesman.
Because 1981 Holden Statesman 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 Holden Statesman. 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, 1981 Holden Statesman (361 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (307 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1981 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 1981 Holden Statesman | |
| Make | Dodge | Holden |
| Model | Caravan | Statesman |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3778 cc | 5041 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 307 Nm | 361 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2900 mm |
