1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 354 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (156 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 340 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 SL 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 SL. 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 SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 555 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (275 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL | |
Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Caravan | SL |
Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3301 cc | 5513 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 156 HP | 510 HP |
Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 275 Nm | 830 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 2045 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2570 mm |