2005 Dodge Neon vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2005 Dodge Neon is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,998 cc (5 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Dodge Neon (230 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (114 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Dodge Neon should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 900 kg more than 2005 Dodge Neon.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Dodge Neon (339 Nm) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (231 Nm). This means 2005 Dodge Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Dodge Neon | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Neon | S |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 2998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 2215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2870 mm |
