1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 9 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (201 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (156 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 185 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 2005 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 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (510 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (275 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caravan | E |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 3222 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2860 mm |
