2003 Dodge Caravan vs. 1973 Chrysler Centura
To start off, 2003 Dodge Caravan is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chrysler Centura. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chrysler Centura 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 28 more horse power than 1973 Chrysler Centura. (118 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1973 Chrysler Centura. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 634 kg more than 1973 Chrysler Centura. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Chrysler Centura 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 Chrysler Centura. 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 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Chrysler Centura. (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Chrysler Centura. 1973 Chrysler Centura has automatic transmission and 2003 Dodge Caravan has manual transmission. 2003 Dodge Caravan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Chrysler Centura will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Caravan | 1973 Chrysler Centura | |
| Make | Dodge | Chrysler |
| Model | Caravan | Centura |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1981 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1116 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2680 mm |
