2003 Dodge Caravan vs. 1961 Ford Prefect
To start off, 2003 Dodge Caravan is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Ford Prefect. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Ford Prefect would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Dodge Caravan (146 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1961 Ford Prefect. (35 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Prefect. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 972 kg more than 1961 Ford Prefect. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Ford Prefect 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 1961 Ford Prefect. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Dodge Caravan (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Ford Prefect. (71 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2003 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Ford Prefect.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Caravan | 1961 Ford Prefect | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caravan | Prefect |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 35 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 71 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 778 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 54 L |
