2009 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan 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 3,778 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 100 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan (312 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Grand Caravan | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3778 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5150 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.2 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |
