2012 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan (283 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 786 kg more than 2009 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, 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2012 Dodge Grand Caravan | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Dodge | Mazda |
Model | Grand Caravan | 3 |
Year Released | 2012 | 2009 |
Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3600 cc | 1596 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 283 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 352 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Flex Fuel | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | 6-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2046 kg | 1260 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5151 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1999 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1725 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3078 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |