1997 Dodge Caravan vs. 1981 Fiat 131
To start off, 1997 Dodge Caravan is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 131 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 20 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (111 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 695 kg more than 1981 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Fiat 131 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 131. 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 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131. 1981 Fiat 131 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. 1981 Fiat 131 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Caravan | 1981 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Dodge | Fiat |
| Model | Caravan | 131 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2500 mm |
