2004 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 3,786 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan (215 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 780 kg more than 1979 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mazda 121 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 1979 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Grand 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 Grand Caravan (332 Nm) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm). This means 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Grand Caravan | 121 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3786 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1914 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2520 mm |
