1990 Dodge Caravan vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 2,501 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1990 Dodge Caravan. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 15 kg more than 1990 Dodge Caravan. 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, 2004 Mazda 3 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Dodge Caravan. (183 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Dodge Caravan | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Caravan | 3 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2680 mm |
