1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 5 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (288 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (156 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 509 kg more than 1996 Dodge Caravan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Dodge Caravan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (440 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (275 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caravan | ML |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Minivan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 288 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 2214 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2860 mm |
