2006 Dodge Caravan vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 6 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 2,397 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Dodge Caravan (150 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (138 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Dodge Caravan. (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Dodge Caravan. 2006 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 2012 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Dodge Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Dodge Caravan | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caravan | A |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2397 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 54 L |
