1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 3,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK (215 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (164 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 595 kg more than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK (316 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (307 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan. 1996 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 | 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Caravan | SLK |
Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3778 cc | 3199 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 164 HP | 215 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 307 Nm | 316 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1330 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2410 mm |