1998 Dodge Caravan vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (229 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Caravan. (131 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Caravan.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Dodge Caravan | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caravan | SLK |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2440 mm |
