2004 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,786 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan (215 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (168 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 654 kg more than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan (332 Nm) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (240 Nm). This means 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan | 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Grand Caravan | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3786 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2014 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2410 mm |
