2000 Dodge Neon vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2000 Dodge Neon is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2000 Dodge Neon. (114 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2000 Dodge Neon.
Because 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Dodge 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Dodge Neon. (152 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Dodge Neon. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 2000 Dodge Neon has manual transmission. 2000 Dodge Neon will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Dodge Neon | 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Neon | 280 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 2744 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2830 mm |
