1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 10 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 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Dodge Caravan (148 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 520 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. 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, 1996 Dodge Caravan (229 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Caravan | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2650 mm |
