1999 Dodge Caravan vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 1999 Dodge Caravan is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Dodge Caravan (131 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 415 kg more than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Dodge Caravan (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1999 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Dodge Caravan | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Caravan | 240 |
Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2399 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 131 HP | 72 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 174 Nm | 137 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1385 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2800 mm |