2002 Dodge Caravan vs. 1979 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Dodge Caravan is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Golf 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 95 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (50 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 1000 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2002 Dodge Caravan (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Dodge Caravan | 1979 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caravan | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2428 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 50 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 79 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 45 L |
