2001 Chrysler Neon vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2001 Chrysler Neon is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,518 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Chrysler Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chrysler Neon (253 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chrysler Neon should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1 kg more than 2001 Chrysler Neon.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Chrysler Neon (332 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Chrysler Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chrysler Neon | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Neon | S |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3518 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 253 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1609 kg | 1610 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2870 mm |
