2003 Dodge Caravan vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 2003 Dodge Caravan is newer by 25 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 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Dodge Caravan (146 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 185 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, 2003 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, 2003 Dodge Caravan (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Caravan | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caravan | 240 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 3430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 65 L |
