2006 Dodge Caravan vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Dodge Caravan is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 3,310 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2006 Dodge Caravan. (180 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 685 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2005 Mazda RX-8 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 2005 Mazda RX-8. 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 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Dodge Caravan | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Caravan | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3310 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1065 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 11 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 61 L |
