2004 Dodge Caravan vs. 1978 Nissan Cedric
To start off, 2004 Dodge Caravan is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Nissan Cedric. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Nissan Cedric 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 71 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Cedric. (74 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Cedric. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 391 kg more than 1978 Nissan Cedric. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Nissan Cedric 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 Nissan Cedric. 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 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Nissan Cedric. (147 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Nissan Cedric.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Caravan | 1978 Nissan Cedric | |
| Make | Dodge | Nissan |
| Model | Caravan | Cedric |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1741 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2700 mm |
