2002 Dodge Caravan vs. 1977 Mazda 323
To start off, 2002 Dodge Caravan is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,428 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Dodge Caravan (145 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 323. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 938 kg more than 1977 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Mazda 323 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 1977 Mazda 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Dodge Caravan (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 323. (69 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Dodge Caravan | 1977 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Caravan | 323 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2428 cc | 983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 69 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 64 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 812 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 40 L |
