1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 13 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, 1996 Dodge Caravan (164 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 395 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 1996 Dodge Caravan (307 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caravan | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3778 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 307 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2720 mm |
