2003 Dodge Neon vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 5 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Neon. (205 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Neon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 343 kg more than 2003 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 CLK 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 CLK. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Neon. (298 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Neon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Neon | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Neon | CLK |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 11.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1347 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 62 L |
