2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,460 cc, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle weights approximately 178 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle (315 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Caravelle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2460 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 173 HP |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 173 km/hour | 184 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.4 seconds | 12.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
