2002 Dodge Caravan vs. 1981 Mercedes-Benz S

To start off, 2002 Dodge Caravan is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mercedes-Benz S (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2002 Dodge Caravan. (145 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 190 kg more than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S.

Because 1981 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Dodge Caravan (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S.

Compare all specifications:

2002 Dodge Caravan 1981 Mercedes-Benz S
Make Dodge Mercedes-Benz
Model Caravan S
Year Released 2002 1981
Body Type Minivan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2428 cc 2746 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 145 HP 154 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 226 Nm 223 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1750 kg 1560 kg
Vehicle Length 4810 mm 5030 mm
Vehicle Width 2010 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1760 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2950 mm


 

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