2004 Dodge Neon vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Dodge Neon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Dodge Neon would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 490 more horse power than 2004 Dodge Neon. (114 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Dodge Neon.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,001 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 849 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Dodge Neon. (152 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Dodge Neon. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2004 Dodge Neon has manual transmission. 2004 Dodge Neon will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Neon | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Neon | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 604 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 1001 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2570 mm |
