2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1997 Plymouth Neon

To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Plymouth Neon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Plymouth Neon would be higher. At 6,208 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (451 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 320 more horse power than 1997 Plymouth Neon. (131 HP @ 5850 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Plymouth Neon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1723 kg more than 1997 Plymouth Neon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Plymouth 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 C (600 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 426 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Plymouth Neon. (174 Nm @ 4950 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Plymouth Neon. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1997 Plymouth Neon has manual transmission. 1997 Plymouth Neon will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Mercedes-Benz C 1997 Plymouth Neon
Make Mercedes-Benz Plymouth
Model C Neon
Year Released 2009 1997
Body Type Station Wagon Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 6208 cc 1996 cc
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 451 HP 131 HP
Engine RPM 6800 RPM 5850 RPM
Torque 600 Nm 174 Nm
Torque RPM 5000 RPM 4950 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 2832 kg 1109 kg
Vehicle Length 4720 mm 4370 mm
Vehicle Width 1490 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1800 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2650 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 66 L 79 L