1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180
To start off, 1996 Dodge Caravan is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180 would be higher. At 3,301 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Dodge Caravan (156 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180. (45 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 415 kg more than 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180 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 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Dodge Caravan (275 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180. (104 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180. 1996 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180 has manual transmission. 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Dodge Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caravan | 180 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1954 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 1767 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 45 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2660 mm |
