1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 1955 Mercedes-Benz Ponton
To start off, 1996 Dodge Caravan is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Mercedes-Benz Ponton. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Mercedes-Benz Ponton would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Dodge Caravan (148 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1955 Mercedes-Benz Ponton. (47 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1955 Mercedes-Benz Ponton. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 495 kg more than 1955 Mercedes-Benz Ponton. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Mercedes-Benz Ponton 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 1955 Mercedes-Benz Ponton. 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 (229 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Mercedes-Benz Ponton. (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Mercedes-Benz Ponton.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 1955 Mercedes-Benz Ponton | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caravan | Ponton |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2660 mm |
