2008 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 1978 Mazda 818
To start off, 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 3,952 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan (240 HP) has 172 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 818. (68 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 480 kg more than 1978 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda 818 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 Mazda 818. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan (343 Nm) has 251 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 818. (92 Nm). This means 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 818. 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan has automatic transmission and 1978 Mazda 818 has manual transmission. 1978 Mazda 818 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan | 1978 Mazda 818 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Grand Caravan | 818 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3952 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 68 HP |
| Torque | 343 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5150 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2320 mm |
