2000 Dodge Neon vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Dodge Neon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Dodge Neon would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2000 Dodge Neon. (150 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2000 Dodge Neon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 129 kg more than 2000 Dodge Neon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Dodge Neon. (186 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Dodge Neon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Dodge Neon | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Neon | SLK |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1161 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 70 L |
