2006 Dodge Caravan vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 2006 Dodge Caravan. (180 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2006 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 210 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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 SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Dodge Caravan. (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Dodge Caravan | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caravan | SLK |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3310 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 12.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 70 L |
