2005 Dodge Caravan vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 95 kg more than 2005 Dodge Caravan.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 234 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Dodge Caravan. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Dodge Caravan. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2005 Dodge Caravan has manual transmission. 2005 Dodge Caravan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Dodge Caravan | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caravan | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| 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 | 0 HP |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 90 L |
