2005 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (317 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan. (180 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 44 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (471 Nm) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan. (285 Nm). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Grand Caravan | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3310 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 471 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1884 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 80 L |
