2001 Dodge Neon vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Dodge Neon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Dodge Neon would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 2001 Dodge Neon. (115 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2001 Dodge Neon.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Dodge Neon. (152 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Dodge Neon. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2001 Dodge Neon has manual transmission. 2001 Dodge Neon will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Dodge Neon | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Neon | S |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 Length | 4370 mm | 5096 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3165 mm |
