2003 Dodge Neon vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Dodge Neon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Dodge Neon would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Neon. (205 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Neon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Neon weights approximately 107 kg more than 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (511 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Neon. (298 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Neon. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2003 Dodge Neon has manual transmission. 2003 Dodge Neon will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Neon | 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Neon | SLK |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2007 |
| 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 |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 511 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 90.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1347 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 70 L |
