1997 Plymouth Neon vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Plymouth Neon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Plymouth Neon would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Plymouth Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1997 Plymouth Neon. (131 HP @ 5850 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1997 Plymouth Neon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 189 kg more than 1997 Plymouth Neon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Plymouth Neon. (174 Nm @ 4950 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Plymouth Neon. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1997 Plymouth Neon has manual transmission. 1997 Plymouth Neon will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Plymouth Neon | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Plymouth | Volkswagen |
| Model | Neon | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5850 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4950 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1109 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 79 L | 55 L |
