1997 Dodge Caravan vs. 1966 Opel Rekord
To start off, 1997 Dodge Caravan is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Dodge Caravan (131 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1966 Opel Rekord. (57 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1966 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 710 kg more than 1966 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Opel Rekord 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 1966 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Dodge Caravan (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Opel Rekord. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Caravan | 1966 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Dodge | Opel |
| Model | Caravan | Rekord |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2670 mm |
