2008 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,952 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan (240 HP) has 83 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 250 kg more than 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan (343 Nm) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm). This means 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Grand Caravan | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3952 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 157 HP |
| Torque | 343 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5150 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 85 L |
