1999 Volkswagen Caravelle vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle. (85 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 177 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Mazda 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle. (140 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
| Model | Caravelle | 3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1206 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2050 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2639 mm |
