1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 1982 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1996 Dodge Caravan is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,839 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Mercedes-Benz S (201 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (164 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 340 kg more than 1982 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 1982 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 1982 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1982 Mercedes-Benz S (315 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (307 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1982 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 1982 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caravan | S |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3778 cc | 3839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 307 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2860 mm |
