2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle would be higher. At 2,260 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (154 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle. (85 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 344 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle 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 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3, 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 Mazda 3 (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle. (140 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Caravelle |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1781 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1206 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 2050 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
