1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 10 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 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (148 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 80 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (245 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (229 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1996 Dodge Caravan has manual transmission. 1996 Dodge Caravan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caravan | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2720 mm |
