2004 Dodge Caravan vs. 1961 Simca Ariane
To start off, 2004 Dodge Caravan is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Simca Ariane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Simca Ariane would be higher. At 3,309 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Dodge Caravan (180 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1961 Simca Ariane. (62 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1961 Simca Ariane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 641 kg more than 1961 Simca Ariane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Simca Ariane 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 Simca Ariane. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Dodge Caravan (285 Nm) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Simca Ariane. (90 Nm). This means 2004 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Simca Ariane.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Caravan | 1961 Simca Ariane | |
| Make | Dodge | Simca |
| Model | Caravan | Ariane |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3309 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 7.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1741 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2700 mm |
