1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (156 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 50 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 SL 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 SL. 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 SL (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (275 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan. 1996 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Caravan | SL |
Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3301 cc | 3724 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 156 HP | 242 HP |
Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 275 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1755 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2570 mm |