1998 Chrysler Neon vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chrysler Neon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chrysler Neon would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (247 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1998 Chrysler Neon. (131 HP @ 5850 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1998 Chrysler Neon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 701 kg more than 1998 Chrysler Neon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler Neon, 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chrysler Neon. (174 Nm @ 4950 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chrysler Neon. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1998 Chrysler Neon has manual transmission. 1998 Chrysler Neon will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler Neon | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Neon | S |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5850 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4950 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1109 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2890 mm |
