1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (302 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 845 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 GL 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 GL 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 GL (700 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 438 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (262 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caravan | GL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Minivan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 2550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 3080 mm |
