2004 Dodge Caravan vs. 1971 Opel Rekord
To start off, 2004 Dodge Caravan is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Dodge Caravan (145 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1971 Opel Rekord. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1971 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 715 kg more than 1971 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Opel Rekord 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 1971 Opel Rekord. 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 (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Opel Rekord. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Caravan | 1971 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Dodge | Opel |
| Model | Caravan | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1741 kg | 1026 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2670 mm |
