1988 Plymouth Caravelle vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Plymouth Caravelle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Plymouth Caravelle would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Plymouth Caravelle (96 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (5 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Plymouth Caravelle should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 376 kg more than 1988 Plymouth Caravelle.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Plymouth Caravelle, 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Plymouth Caravelle. (158 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Plymouth Caravelle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Plymouth Caravelle | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Plymouth | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caravelle | SLK |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2213 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 5 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1165 kg | 1541 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2431 mm |
