2002 Dodge Caravan vs. 1978 Fiat 131
To start off, 2002 Dodge Caravan is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 131 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 86 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (59 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 570 kg more than 1978 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Fiat 131 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 1978 Fiat 131. 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 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (113 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Dodge Caravan | 1978 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Dodge | Fiat |
| Model | Caravan | 131 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2428 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2500 mm |
