2003 Dodge Caravan vs. 1980 Volvo 260
To start off, 2003 Dodge Caravan is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,848 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Volvo 260 (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Caravan. (146 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 380 kg more than 1980 Volvo 260.
Because 1980 Volvo 260 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 1980 Volvo 260. 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, 1980 Volvo 260 (230 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Caravan. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Caravan | 1980 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Dodge | Volvo |
| Model | Caravan | 260 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2660 mm |
