2003 Dodge Caravan vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Caravan. (146 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 380 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz B.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz B 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz B. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B (280 Nm @ 4850 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Caravan. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Caravan | 2006 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caravan | B |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4850 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 56 L |
