2003 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,972 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 (237 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan. (212 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 415 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Grand 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 (402 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan. (332 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Grand Caravan | 500 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3778 cc | 4972 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 402 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1930 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 90 L |
