2009 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 1978 Renault 18
To start off, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 18 would be higher. At 3,301 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan (173 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1978 Renault 18. (78 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 935 kg more than 1978 Renault 18. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 18. (136 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 18. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan has automatic transmission and 1978 Renault 18 has manual transmission. 1978 Renault 18 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan | 1978 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Dodge | Renault |
| Model | Grand Caravan | 18 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 1647 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1960 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5150 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1410 mm |
