1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 1975 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 1996 Dodge Caravan is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Mercedes-Benz E 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 54 more horse power than 1975 Mercedes-Benz E. (94 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1975 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 375 kg more than 1975 Mercedes-Benz E. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1975 Mercedes-Benz E. 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 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Mercedes-Benz E. (160 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 1975 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caravan | E |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2760 mm |
