1996 Chrysler Neon vs. 1981 Nissan Leopard
To start off, 1996 Chrysler Neon is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Leopard. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Leopard would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Chrysler Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chrysler Neon (131 HP @ 5850 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Leopard. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chrysler Neon should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Leopard. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chrysler Neon weights approximately 4 kg more than 1981 Nissan Leopard. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Nissan Leopard 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 1981 Nissan Leopard. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Chrysler Neon (174 Nm @ 4950 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Leopard. (147 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Chrysler Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Leopard. 1981 Nissan Leopard has automatic transmission and 1996 Chrysler Neon has manual transmission. 1996 Chrysler Neon will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Nissan Leopard will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chrysler Neon | 1981 Nissan Leopard | |
| Make | Chrysler | Nissan |
| Model | Neon | Leopard |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1768 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5850 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4950 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1109 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2630 mm |
