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 2,497 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1125 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 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 (262 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1996 Dodge Caravan has manual transmission. 1996 Dodge Caravan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Dodge Caravan | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Caravan | C |
Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1796 cc |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 181 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 262 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 2830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1450 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2770 mm |