1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 12 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 3,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (164 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 503 kg more than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Dodge Caravan (307 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8. 1996 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Dodge Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Caravan | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3778 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 307 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2710 mm |
