1998 Chrysler Neon vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C

To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 14 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (263 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1998 Chrysler Neon. (131 HP @ 5850 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 Chrysler Neon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 651 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (620 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 446 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chrysler Neon. (174 Nm @ 4950 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chrysler Neon. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Chrysler Neon 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
Make Chrysler Mercedes-Benz
Model Neon C
Year Released 1998 2012
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1996 cc 2987 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 131 HP 263 HP
Engine RPM 5850 RPM 3800 RPM
Torque 174 Nm 620 Nm
Torque RPM 4950 RPM 1600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual 7-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1109 kg 1760 kg
Vehicle Length 4370 mm 4606 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1459 mm
Wheelbase Size 2650 mm 2760 mm