2009 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,301 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan (173 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (87 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 515 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan has automatic transmission and 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Grand Caravan | 300 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1960 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5150 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 65 L |
