1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 2700 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (164 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 77 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2005 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 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (307 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL | |
Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Caravan | SL |
Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3778 cc | 4966 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 164 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Torque | 307 Nm | 460 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1848 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2570 mm |