2012 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 1978 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan (283 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 956 kg more than 1978 Chrysler 1609. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Chrysler 1609 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 Chrysler 1609. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan | 1978 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Dodge | Chrysler |
| Model | Grand Caravan | 1609 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 1639 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 283 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 352 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Flex Fuel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2046 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5151 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1999 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1725 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3078 mm | 2670 mm |
