2003 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 1972 Toyota Publica
To start off, 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Toyota Publica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Toyota Publica would be higher. At 3,778 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan (212 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1972 Toyota Publica. (38 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1972 Toyota Publica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 1255 kg more than 1972 Toyota Publica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Toyota Publica 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 1972 Toyota Publica. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Grand 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 Grand Caravan (332 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Toyota Publica. (62 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Toyota Publica.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan | 1972 Toyota Publica | |
| Make | Dodge | Toyota |
| Model | Grand Caravan | Publica |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3778 cc | 790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 62 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1930 kg | 675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 3680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2170 mm |
