1997 Dodge Caravan vs. 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1997 Dodge Caravan is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 7,462 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass (248 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (131 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Caravan.
Because 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 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, 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass (502 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 328 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Caravan. 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 1997 Dodge Caravan has manual transmission. 1997 Dodge Caravan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Caravan | 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Dodge | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Caravan | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 7462 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 248 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 502 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2850 mm |
