1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2003 Dodge Neon
To start off, 2003 Dodge Neon is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Dodge Neon (114 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Neon should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626.
Because 1978 Mazda 626 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 Mazda 626. 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, 2003 Dodge Neon (152 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2003 Dodge Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626. 2003 Dodge Neon has automatic transmission and 1978 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1978 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Dodge Neon will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 2003 Dodge Neon | |
| Make | Mazda | Dodge |
| Model | 626 | Neon |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1768 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2650 mm |
