1992 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1992 Dodge Grand 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, 1992 Dodge Grand Caravan (142 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (114 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 640 kg more than 1992 Dodge Grand Caravan.
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 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, 1992 Dodge Grand Caravan (235 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1992 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Dodge Grand Caravan | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Grand Caravan | S |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2971 cc | 2998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 2215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2870 mm |
