2006 Dodge Caravan vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2006 Dodge Caravan. (150 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Dodge Caravan.
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 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Dodge Caravan. (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Dodge Caravan. 2006 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Dodge Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Dodge Caravan | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Dodge | Mazda |
Model | Caravan | 3 |
Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2397 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 224 Nm | 228 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4506 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 60 L |