2002 Dodge Neon vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Dodge Neon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Dodge Neon would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 298 more horse power than 2002 Dodge Neon. (212 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 Dodge Neon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 749 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (720 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 416 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Dodge Neon. (304 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Dodge Neon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Dodge Neon | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Neon | SL |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 720 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1206 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 80 L |
