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 |