2002 Dodge Neon vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Dodge Neon is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Dodge Neon (212 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Dodge Neon should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 404 kg more than 2002 Dodge Neon.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Dodge Neon (304 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Dodge Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Dodge Neon | 1979 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Neon | S |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1206 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 85 L |
