2009 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 1979 Ford Fiesta

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 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 3,299 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan (175 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1979 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 976 kg more than 1979 Ford Fiesta. 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 (278 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Fiesta. (65 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Fiesta. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan has automatic transmission and 1979 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1979 Ford Fiesta 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 1979 Ford Fiesta
Make Dodge Ford
Model Grand Caravan Fiesta
Year Released 2009 1979
Body Type Minivan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3299 cc 957 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 175 HP 39 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 278 Nm 65 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2700 RPM
Engine Bore Size 93 mm 74 mm
Engine Stroke Size 81 mm 55.7 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 7 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1691 kg 715 kg
Vehicle Length 5150 mm 3570 mm
Vehicle Width 2010 mm 1570 mm
Vehicle Height 1760 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 3080 mm 2300 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 76 L 34 L