2006 Dodge Caravan vs. 1981 Mazda 323
To start off, 2006 Dodge Caravan is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 3,309 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Dodge Caravan (180 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 323. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 900 kg more than 1981 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2006 Dodge Caravan (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 323. (79 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Dodge Caravan | 1981 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Caravan | 323 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3309 cc | 1069 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 79 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2370 mm |
