2004 Dodge Caravan vs. 1974 Fiat 131
To start off, 2004 Dodge Caravan is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 131 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 81 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 776 kg more than 1974 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Fiat 131. 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 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Caravan | 1974 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Dodge | Fiat |
| Model | Caravan | 131 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1741 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 50 L |
