1988 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2002 Dodge Neon
To start off, 2002 Dodge Neon is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1988 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mazda RX-7 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2002 Dodge Neon. (114 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2002 Dodge Neon.
Because 1988 Mazda RX-7 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 1988 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1988 Mazda RX-7 (186 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Dodge Neon. (152 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1988 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Dodge Neon. 2002 Dodge Neon has automatic transmission and 1988 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1988 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Dodge Neon will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mazda RX-7 | 2002 Dodge Neon | |
| Make | Mazda | Dodge |
| Model | RX-7 | Neon |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2650 mm |
