1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 3,301 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (156 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 423 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3.
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, 1996 Dodge Caravan (275 Nm) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (203 Nm). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Caravan | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1282 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2650 mm |
