1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E 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 3,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (164 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 115 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. 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 E (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (307 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Dodge Caravan | 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | |
Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Caravan | E |
Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
Body Type | Minivan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3778 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 164 HP | 268 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 307 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4860 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1500 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2860 mm |