1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 199 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (156 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 165 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. 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 SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (275 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK | |
Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Caravan | SLK |
Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3301 cc | 5439 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 156 HP | 355 HP |
Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 275 Nm | 510 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 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 | 1540 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2440 mm |