1978 Austin Marina vs. 2004 Dodge Neon
To start off, 2004 Dodge Neon is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Austin Marina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Austin Marina would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Dodge Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Dodge Neon (114 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1978 Austin Marina. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Neon should accelerate faster than 1978 Austin Marina.
Because 1978 Austin Marina 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 Austin Marina. 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, 2004 Dodge Neon (152 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Austin Marina. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Dodge Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Austin Marina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Austin Marina | 2004 Dodge Neon | |
| Make | Austin | Dodge |
| Model | Marina | Neon |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2650 mm |
