2009 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,301 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan. (173 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 70 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S 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 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Grand Caravan | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5150 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 70 L |
