2004 Dodge Caravan vs. 1978 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2004 Dodge Caravan is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 3,310 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Dodge Caravan (180 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1978 Ford Mustang. (138 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 492 kg more than 1978 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Ford Mustang 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 1978 Ford Mustang. 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 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Mustang. (197 Nm). This means 2004 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Caravan | 1978 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caravan | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3310 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1707 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2560 mm |
