1999 Dodge Caravan vs. 1980 Dodge Aspen
To start off, 1999 Dodge Caravan is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Dodge Aspen. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Dodge Aspen would be higher. At 3,687 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Dodge Aspen is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Dodge Caravan (131 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1980 Dodge Aspen. (101 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1980 Dodge Aspen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 335 kg more than 1980 Dodge Aspen. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Dodge Aspen 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 1980 Dodge Aspen. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1980 Dodge Aspen (231 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1980 Dodge Aspen will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Dodge Caravan | 1980 Dodge Aspen | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Caravan | Aspen |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 3687 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2760 mm |
