2003 Dodge Caravan vs. 2012 Mazda 6
To start off, 2012 Mazda 6 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 6 (272 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Caravan. (146 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 129 kg more than 2012 Mazda 6.
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, 2012 Mazda 6 (364 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Caravan. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Caravan. 2012 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 2003 Dodge Caravan has manual transmission. 2003 Dodge Caravan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Caravan | 2012 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Caravan | 6 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 272 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1621 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4755 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1795 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2789 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 70 L |
