2006 Dodge Caravan vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is newer by 5 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 3,310 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (188 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2006 Dodge Caravan. (180 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter should accelerate faster than 2006 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter weights approximately 1018 kg more than 2006 Dodge Caravan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (440 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Dodge Caravan. (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Dodge Caravan | 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caravan | Sprinter |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3310 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 188 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 2768 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 6939 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 2024 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 2814 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 4326 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 100 L |
