1997 Dodge Caravan vs. 1981 Ford Mustang
To start off, 1997 Dodge Caravan is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ford Mustang (173 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (131 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 445 kg more than 1981 Ford Mustang.
Because 1981 Ford Mustang 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 Ford Mustang. 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, 1981 Ford Mustang (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1981 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Dodge Caravan | 1981 Ford Mustang | |
Make | Dodge | Ford |
Model | Caravan | Mustang |
Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1996 cc | 4942 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 131 HP | 173 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 174 Nm | 332 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1355 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4560 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2560 mm |