1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE
To start off, 1996 Dodge Caravan is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE 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 30 more horse power than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. (118 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 185 kg more than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE 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 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. 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 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. (189 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Dodge Caravan | 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE | |
Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Caravan | SE |
Year Released | 1996 | 1961 |
Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2193 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 118 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 229 Nm | 189 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1520 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2760 mm |