2001 Dodge Caravan vs. 1973 Ford Cortina
To start off, 2001 Dodge Caravan is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 3,301 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Dodge Caravan (173 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1973 Ford Cortina. (56 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1973 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 760 kg more than 1973 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Ford Cortina 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 1973 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Dodge Caravan (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Ford Cortina. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Ford Cortina. 2001 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 1973 Ford Cortina has manual transmission. 1973 Ford Cortina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Dodge Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Dodge Caravan | 1973 Ford Cortina | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caravan | Cortina |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 91 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2590 mm |
