2006 Dodge Caravan vs. 1978 Pontiac Grand Safari
To start off, 2006 Dodge Caravan is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Pontiac Grand Safari. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Pontiac Grand Safari would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Grand Safari is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Dodge Caravan (180 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1978 Pontiac Grand Safari. (138 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1978 Pontiac Grand Safari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Grand Safari weights approximately 122 kg more than 2006 Dodge Caravan.
Because 2006 Dodge Caravan is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Pontiac Grand Safari. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Caravan will offer significantly more control. 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, 1978 Pontiac Grand Safari (319 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Dodge Caravan. (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Grand Safari will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Dodge Caravan | 1978 Pontiac Grand Safari | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Caravan | Grand Safari |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3309 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1872 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 5450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2950 mm |
