1997 Dodge Caravan vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 11 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (131 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 655 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Dodge Caravan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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 R (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Caravan. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Dodge Caravan | 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | |
Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Caravan | R |
Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
Body Type | Minivan | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1996 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 131 HP | 268 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 174 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 6 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1145 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1930 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1660 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 3220 mm |