1992 Dodge Caravan vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 2,499 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1992 Dodge Caravan. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1992 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 285 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3.
Because 2006 Mazda 3 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 2006 Mazda 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Dodge 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, 1992 Dodge Caravan (183 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1992 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Dodge Caravan | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Caravan | 3 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2650 mm |
