1997 Dodge Caravan vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 12 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (605 HP) has 474 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (131 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1030 kg more than 1997 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 SL 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 SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm) has 826 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Dodge Caravan | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Caravan | SL |
Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1996 cc | 5980 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 131 HP | 605 HP |
Torque | 174 Nm | 1000 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 2830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2570 mm |