1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 6 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, 1996 Dodge Caravan (156 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. (120 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 105 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. 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 (275 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. (270 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 2002 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caravan | E |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 2147 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2860 mm |
