1997 Dodge Caravan vs. 1981 Reliant SE6
To start off, 1997 Dodge Caravan is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Reliant SE6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Reliant SE6 would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Reliant SE6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Reliant SE6 (133 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (131 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Reliant SE6 should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 550 kg more than 1981 Reliant SE6.
Because 1981 Reliant SE6 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 Reliant SE6. 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 Reliant SE6 (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1981 Reliant SE6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Caravan | 1981 Reliant SE6 | |
| Make | Dodge | Reliant |
| Model | Caravan | SE6 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2650 mm |
