1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2000 Mercedes-Benz C

To start off, 2000 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 4 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 3,301 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Mercedes-Benz C (189 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (156 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 205 kg more than 2000 Mercedes-Benz C.

Because 2000 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2000 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2000 Mercedes-Benz C (280 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (275 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2000 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan. 1996 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 2000 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2000 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2000 Mercedes-Benz C
Make Dodge Mercedes-Benz
Model Caravan C
Year Released 1996 2000
Body Type Minivan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3301 cc 2293 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 156 HP 189 HP
Engine RPM 4700 RPM 5300 RPM
Torque 275 Nm 280 Nm
Torque RPM 3250 RPM 2500 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 7 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1705 kg 1500 kg
Vehicle Length 4740 mm 4350 mm
Vehicle Width 1960 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1790 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2880 mm 2840 mm