1994 Dodge Caravan vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 2,501 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1994 Dodge Caravan. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1994 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1994 Dodge Caravan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mazda RX-8 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 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Dodge Caravan. (183 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Dodge Caravan | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Caravan | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 1307 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2680 mm |
