2003 Dodge Neon vs. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Dodge Neon is newer by 15 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 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Dodge Neon (205 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. (165 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Neon should accelerate faster than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 173 kg more than 2003 Dodge Neon.
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, 2003 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, 2003 Dodge Neon (298 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2003 Dodge Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Neon | 1988 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Neon | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 82.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1347 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2950 mm |
