2004 Dodge Caravan vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Dodge Caravan is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 2004 Dodge Caravan. (145 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 113 kg more than 2004 Dodge Caravan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 234 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Dodge Caravan. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Dodge Caravan. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2004 Dodge Caravan has manual transmission. 2004 Dodge Caravan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Caravan | 1999 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caravan | S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1741 kg | 1854 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 88 L |
