1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 3,301 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (216 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (156 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 754 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 2008 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, 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (540 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 265 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (275 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 GL | |
Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Caravan | GL |
Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
Body Type | Minivan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3301 cc | 2987 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 156 HP | 216 HP |
Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 275 Nm | 540 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 7 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 2459 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 |