1997 Mazda MX-3 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda MX-3 (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle. (85 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle weights approximately 147 kg more than 1997 Mazda MX-3.
Because 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle 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 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mazda MX-3, 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, 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle (140 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda MX-3. (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda MX-3 | 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-3 | Caravelle |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 1206 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 2050 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2410 mm |
