1999 Dodge Caravan vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 1999 Dodge Caravan is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 (134 HP) has 3 more horse power than 1999 Dodge Caravan. (131 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 1999 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 320 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 (206 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Dodge Caravan | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caravan | 230 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2810 mm |
