2009 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 1979 Dodge Aspen
To start off, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Dodge Aspen. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Dodge Aspen would be higher. At 3,685 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Dodge Aspen is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan (173 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1979 Dodge Aspen. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1979 Dodge Aspen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 475 kg more than 1979 Dodge Aspen. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Dodge Aspen 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 Dodge Aspen. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1979 Dodge Aspen (231 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Dodge Aspen will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan | 1979 Dodge Aspen | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Grand Caravan | Aspen |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 3685 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1960 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5150 mm | 5200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2870 mm |
