1997 Dodge Caravan vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 14 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 23 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz B. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz B. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 360 kg more than 2011 Mercedes-Benz B. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz B (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Caravan | 2011 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caravan | B |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2780 mm |
