1994 Chrysler Neon vs. 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1994 Chrysler Neon is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Chrysler Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Chrysler Neon (131 HP @ 5850 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Chrysler Neon should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Chrysler Neon weights approximately 139 kg more than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 Chrysler 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, 1994 Chrysler Neon (174 Nm @ 4950 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1994 Chrysler Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Chrysler Neon | 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | Neon | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5850 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4950 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1109 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2270 mm |
