2006 Dodge Caravan vs. 1981 Mazda Cosmo

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 Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 3,310 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Dodge Caravan (180 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. (120 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 600 kg more than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1981 Mazda Cosmo 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 1981 Mazda Cosmo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Dodge 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, 2006 Dodge Caravan (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda Cosmo.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Dodge Caravan 1981 Mazda Cosmo
Make Dodge Mazda
Model Caravan Cosmo
Year Released 2006 1981
Body Type Minivan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3310 cc 2292 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 2 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 180 HP 120 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 7000 RPM
Torque 285 Nm 162 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4000 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1750 kg 1150 kg
Vehicle Length 4810 mm 4670 mm
Vehicle Width 2000 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1760 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2880 mm 2620 mm