2009 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan. (175 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 64 kg more than 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan. (278 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Grand Caravan | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3299 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1755 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5150 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 80 L |
