2004 Dodge Caravan vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Dodge Caravan is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,437 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (469 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 324 more horse power than 2004 Dodge Caravan. (145 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 214 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 474 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Dodge Caravan. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Dodge Caravan. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Caravan | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caravan | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 5437 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 469 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1741 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 80 L |
