1997 Dodge Caravan vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Dodge Caravan (131 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 705 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Dodge Caravan (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1997 Dodge Caravan has manual transmission. 1997 Dodge Caravan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Dodge Caravan | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Caravan | A |
Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1397 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 131 HP | 80 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 174 Nm | 130 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1095 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1580 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2430 mm |