1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 8 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 2,497 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (160 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 315 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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 (262 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Dodge Caravan | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Caravan | SLK |
Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 160 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 262 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1390 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2440 mm |