2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan
To start off, 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan (283 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 581 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Dodge |
| Model | C | Grand Caravan |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 2046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 5151 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1999 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1725 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3078 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 76 L |
