2005 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan would be higher. At 3,310 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan (180 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (139 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 750 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.
Because 2006 Mazda 3 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 2006 Mazda 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Dodge Grand 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, 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan (285 Nm) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (182 Nm). This means 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Grand Caravan | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3310 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1884 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |
