1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 1984 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 1996 Dodge Caravan is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 2,497 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Dodge Caravan (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1984 Ford Fiesta. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 930 kg more than 1984 Ford Fiesta. 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 (262 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Fiesta. (83 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 1984 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caravan | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1117 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 775 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2300 mm |
