1999 Dodge Caravan vs. 1973 Renault 12
To start off, 1999 Dodge Caravan is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Dodge Caravan (131 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 850 kg more than 1973 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1999 Dodge Caravan (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Dodge Caravan | 1973 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Dodge | Renault |
| Model | Caravan | 12 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2450 mm |
