1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 329 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (164 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 210 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 2002 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 2002 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 494 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (307 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Dodge Caravan | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Caravan | S |
Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3778 cc | 5513 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 164 HP | 493 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 307 Nm | 801 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 2135 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5170 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2720 mm |