1992 Dodge Caravan vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1992 Dodge Caravan is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,998 cc (5 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (114 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1992 Dodge Caravan. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1992 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 810 kg more than 1992 Dodge Caravan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Dodge 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Dodge Caravan. (183 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Dodge Caravan | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caravan | S |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 2998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 2215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2870 mm |
