2002 Dodge Neon vs. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Dodge Neon is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (261 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2002 Dodge Neon. (212 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 Dodge Neon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 420 kg more than 2002 Dodge Neon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 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, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (405 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Dodge Neon. (304 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1988 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Dodge Neon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Dodge Neon | 1988 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Neon | S |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 405 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1206 kg | 1626 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2950 mm |
