2003 Dodge Caravan vs. 1981 Fiat 131
To start off, 2003 Dodge Caravan is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 131 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 76 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 700 kg more than 1981 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Fiat 131. 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 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Caravan | 1981 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Dodge | Fiat |
| Model | Caravan | 131 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1367 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2500 mm |
