1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz G
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz G 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz G (292 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz G should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz G 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 G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Dodge Caravan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz G will offer significantly more control. 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 G (456 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (262 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz G will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan. 2006 Mercedes-Benz G 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 G will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 2006 Mercedes-Benz G | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caravan | G |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Minivan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 292 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 456 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2860 mm |
