1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1996 Dodge Caravan is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 164 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 405 kg more than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 1986 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 1986 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, 1996 Dodge Caravan (307 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. 1996 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 1986 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S 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 | 1986 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caravan | S |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3778 cc | 2599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 307 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2950 mm |
