1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 12 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), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 45 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (262 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Dodge Caravan | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Caravan | CLK |
Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
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 | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 262 Nm | 460 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1660 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4640 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2720 mm |