2009 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
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 RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 3,778 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan. (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 31 kg more than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Grand 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, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan (312 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Grand Caravan | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3778 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5150 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.4 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.9 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.2 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 60 L |
