2003 Dodge Neon vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 9 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 268 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Neon. (114 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Neon.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 378 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Neon. (152 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Neon. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Dodge Neon | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Neon | SL |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 5500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 382 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 152 Nm | 530 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4582 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1298 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2560 mm |