1998 Chrysler Neon vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 1998 Chrysler Neon is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Chrysler Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chrysler Neon (131 HP @ 5850 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler Neon should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler Neon weights approximately 54 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 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, 1998 Chrysler Neon (174 Nm @ 4950 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (133 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Santana.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler Neon | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Neon | Santana |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5850 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4950 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1109 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2560 mm |
